New Insight into the Molecular Pathomechanism and Immunomodulatory Treatments of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an immune-mediated inflammatory disorder characterized by deep-seated nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts and scars localized in the intertriginous areas. It is accompanied by pain, malodourous secretion and a dramatically decreased quality of life. Although the pathogenesis has not been entirely elucidated, the primary event is follicular hyperkeratosis of the pilosebaceous apocrine unit. Since the registration of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitor Adalimumab in 2015, several cytokines have been implicated in the pathomechanism of HS and the research of novel therapeutic targets has been intensified. We provide an update on the inflammatory cytokines with a central role in HS pathogenesis and the most promising target molecules of future HS management.

Automated summary

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an immune-mediated inflammatory disorder characterized by nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts, and scars in intertriginous areas. It causes pain, malodorous secretion, and significantly decreases the quality of life. The pathogenesis is not fully understood, but follicular hyperkeratosis of the pilosebaceous apocrine unit is considered the primary event. Since the registration of Adalimumab in 2015, several cytokines have been implicated in the pathomechanism of HS, leading to intensified research on novel therapeutic targets for HS management.