Diagnosing HS

Diagnosis of HS is made by looking at the 4 main characteristics of the disease:

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Signs:

Deep seated boil-like abscesses, sinus-tracts and/or scarring

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Location: 

Armpit (axilla), genital area, groin, perineum, breast and/or buttocks.

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History:

Recurrent painful or suppurating abscesses for more than twice in a 6 month period. Is there a family history of the condition.

Microbiology:

A negative swab for bacteria or infection, or the presence of normal microbes may be indicative of HS

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Unfortunately, as this disease is not very well known, HS is quite often mistaken as common conditions. This in turn can lead to a delay in appropriate referrals and diagnosis, and therefore may result in further advancement of the disease. Examples of other conditions often mistaken for HS are;

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• Staphylococcal infection

• Cutaneous Crohn's Disease (often associated with HS)

• Simple abscesses

• Neoplasms (signs of tumor)

• Sexually transmitted diseases

• Ingrowing hair follicles