Understanding the Multidimensional Burden of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

Welcome back to another Dermatology Times DermView series. In this episode titled, ‘Understanding the Multidimensional Burden of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)’, the moderator, Dr. Jennifer Hsiao, and panelist, Dr. Barry Resnik, open the series by exploring the multidimensional burden that HS places on patients. Dr. Resnik describes how the disease affects patients across multiple dimensions simultaneously, causing physical pain that prevents them from tolerating even basic human touch like hugging, while also driving social isolation and damaging intimate relationships. He highlights the significant economic toll as well, noting that patients often travel long distances to find qualified specialists, incurring costs for transportation and lodging, while also regularly replacing clothing and linens that become stained from drainage.

Dr. Hsiao adds that many patients carry deep shame stemming from careless remarks made by healthcare providers who attribute the disease to poor hygiene or excess weight, which erodes trust and creates additional barriers to care. Both physicians stress that their offices must function as safe, nonjudgmental spaces where patients feel seen and heard regardless of their disease presentation.

The conversation turns to disease severity assessment, with Dr. Resnick noting that ongoing efforts aim to establish clearer definitions of moderate to severe disease to support access to appropriate therapies. Both physicians agree that a thorough full-body examination is essential to understanding true disease burden, with Dr. Resnik observing that many patients report their visit to an HS specialist is the first time any clinician has actually examined all affected areas.

In the next episode, ‘Overcoming Barriers to Delayed Diagnosis of HS’, panelists will continue their discussion on HS and examine the persistent barriers contributing to HS's average 10-year diagnostic delay, discussing the critical roles of public awareness, frontline provider education, and proactive screening strategies in bringing patients out of hiding sooner.