Non-surgical treatments for hidradenitis suppurativa: A systematic review

Topical and Intralesional Therapies for Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Systematic Literature Review

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Topical and intralesional (IL) treatments may be considered the first-line therapy in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS); however, the evidence supporting their use is limited. The aim of our review is to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of topical and IL treatments in patients with HS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We designed a systematic review of the current medical literature available following the PICO(T) method. And including all types of studies (Study type [T]) of individuals with HS of any sex, age, and ethnicity (Population [P]) who received any topical or IL treatment for HS (Intervention [I]) compared to placebo, other treatments, or no treatment at all (Comparator [C]), and reported efficacy and/or safety outcomes (Outcomes [O]). Two outcomes were defined: quality of life and the no. of patients with, at least, one adverse event. The search was conducted in the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and Embase databases; study selection was performed based on pre-defined criteria. The risk of bias was determined in each study.

RESULTS

We obtained a total of 11,363 references, 31 of which met the inclusion criteria. These studies included 1143 patients with HS, 62% of whom were women. A total of 10, 8, 6, 2, and 5 studies, respectively, evaluated the use of photodynamic therapy (PDT), glucocorticoids, resorcinol, topical antibiotics, and other interventions. Most articles were case series (n=25), with only five randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and one cohort study. RCTs showed improvement in disease activity with topical clindamycin and botulinum toxin (BTX) vs placebo, and PDT with methylene blue (MB) niosomal vs free MB; however, intralesional triamcinolone acetonide was not superior to placebo. The risk of bias was low in three RCTs and high in two RCTs.

CONCLUSION

The quality of evidence supporting the use of topical, or IL treatments is low. However, it supports the use of topical clindamycin, PDT, and BTX. Well-designed RCTs with standardized outcomes and homogeneous populations of patients and lesions are needed to support decision-making in the routine clinical practice.

Topical and Intralesional Therapies for Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Systematic Literature Review

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Topical and intralesional (IL) treatments may be considered the first-line therapy in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS); however, the evidence supporting their use is limited. The aim of our review is to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of topical and IL treatments in patients with HS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We designed a systematic review of the current medical literature available following the PICO(T) method. And including all types of studies (Study type [T]) of individuals with HS of any sex, age, and ethnicity (Population [P]) who received any topical or IL treatment for HS (Intervention [I]) compared to placebo, other treatments, or no treatment at all (Comparator [C]), and reported efficacy and/or safety outcomes (Outcomes [O]). Two outcomes were defined: quality of life and the no. of patients with, at least, one adverse event. The search was conducted in the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases; study selection was performed based on pre-defined criteria. The risk of bias was determined in each study.

RESULTS

We obtained a total of 11,363 references, 31 of which met the inclusion criteria. These studies included 1143 patients with HS, 62% of whom were women. A total of 10, 8, 6, 2, and 5 studies, respectively, evaluated the use of photodynamic therapy (PDT), glucocorticoids, resorcinol, topical antibiotics, and other interventions. Most articles were case series (n=25), with only five randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and one cohort study. RCTs showed improvement in disease activity with topical clindamycin and botulinum toxin (BTX) vs placebo, and PDT with methylene blue (MB) niosomal vs free MB; however, intralesional triamcinolone acetonide was not superior to placebo. The risk of bias was low in three RCTs and high in two RCTs.

CONCLUSION

The quality of evidence supporting the use of topical, or IL treatments is low. However, it supports the use of topical clindamycin, PDT, and BTX. Well-designed RCTs with standardized outcomes and homogeneous populations of patients and lesions are needed to support decision-making in the routine clinical practice.

Phage therapy for hidradenitis suppurativa: a unique challenge and possible opportunity for personalized treatment of a complex, inflammatory disease

Phage therapy is an emerging antimicrobial treatment for critical multidrug-resistant pathogens. In this review, the specific potential and challenges of phage therapy for patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are discussed. This represents a unique challenge as HS is a chronic inflammatory disease, but presenting with acute exacerbations, which have an enormous negative impact on patient's quality of life. The therapeutic arsenal for HS has expanded in the past decade, for example, with adalimumab and several other biologicals that are currently under investigation. However, treatment of HS remains challenging for dermatologists because there are individuals who do not respond to any classes of the current treatment options when used for a first or second time. Furthermore, after several courses of treatment, a patient may lose their response to therapy, meaning long-term use is not always an option. Culturing studies and 16S ribosomal RNA profiling highlight the complex polymicrobial nature of HS lesions. Despite the detection of various bacterial species in lesion samples, several key pathogens, including Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium and Streptococcus, may be potential targets for phage therapy. Using phage therapy for the treatment of a chronic inflammatory disease could potentially provide new insights into the role of bacteria and the immune system in HS development. In addition, it is possible more details on the immunomodulatory effects of phages may come to light.

Axillary Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Comparison between Two Perforator Flap Reconstructive Approaches after Radical Surgical Management

Background

Axillary hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can result in significant functional impairment in both personal and professional lives. Stage 3 HS requires radical surgical treatment. Flap reconstruction allows for faster healing and better functional and aesthetic outcomes. We compared the results of thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) and propeller inner arm artery perforator (IAAP) flap reconstructions after radical surgical treatment of axillary HS.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study that included 13 consecutive patients who underwent stage 3 axillary HS treatment between August 2015 and January 2023. Seven patients underwent reconstruction by islanded TDAP flaps, whereas six patients underwent reconstruction by propeller IAAP flaps, with one patient undergoing bilateral reconstruction. The data collected from the patient records included age, gender, smoking status, body mass index, comorbidities, operative time, defect size, flap size, hospital stay, and complications.

Results

Although not statistically significant (P = 0.1923), a higher rate of flap complications is reported here with propeller IAAP flaps (42.86 %), whereas islanded TDAP flaps had no flap complications (0%). We found a statistically significant difference in operative time (P = 0.0006), defect size (P = 0.0064), and flap size (P = 0.0012) between the two groups. All patients exhibited satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes. Fourteen flaps were performed in total; only one case exhibited recurrence (7.14%).

Conclusion

After radical surgical management, both islanded TDAP and propeller IAAP flap reconstructions offer excellent outcomes for stage 3 axillary HS. We strongly encourage our peers to consider performing perforator flaps over secondary healing for these patients with a major functional impairment.

Evaluation of Outcomes Following Surgical Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic disease of the apocrine bearing skin causing induration, pain, draining sinuses, and subcutaneous abscesses, significantly impairs patients' quality of life (QOL). Full-thickness excision followed by skin grafting of the involved area can be curative. Herein, we evaluated the impact of this surgical treatment on QOL and depression symptomatology. Adult patients (≥18 years) who consented to participate filled out the dermatology quality of life (DLQI) and the Patient History Questionnaire (PHQ-9) at consent and at 1, 6, and 12 months post-initial evaluation and surgery. Demographics, HS, admission, and operative information were collected. Sixteen patients were included. Subjects were mainly white (81.3 %) and female (56.3%) with a median age of 38.2 (Interquartile range: 34.2-54.5); 62.5% were obese (BMI= 39.7 [28.4-50.6]). Half of the subjects presented with HS in 2 or more areas. Six patients were still undergoing surgeries at 6 months. One-, six-, and 12-month follow-up surveys were obtained from 14, 11, and 8 subjects for DQLI and from 14, 9, and 5 subjects for PHQ9. DLQI scores significantly decreased at 6 months compared to baseline, which indicates QOL improvement (10 [4-20] vs 15.5 [12-21.8], P = .036). Although not significant, PHQ9 scores tended to decrease. For those with the worst disease, DLQI significantly decreased at both 6 (P = .049) and 12 months (P = .047) compared to baseline. Despite a small sample size, our data suggest that aggressive surgical treatment improves the QOL of HS patients. Further studies are warranted to confirm our findings.

Outcomes and Reliability of Perforator Flaps in the Reconstruction of Hidradenitis Suppurativa Defects: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a common and debilitating disease, in which the only effective treatment involves a wide excision of the affected skin. Secondary wound healing and skin grafting are two well-known options for managing these defects, but perforator flaps provide a new therapeutic alternative by ensuring reconstructions of large defects, reducing donor site morbidity, and enhancing functional recovery. The aim of this study was to achieve a systematic review of perforator flaps use in HS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

PubMed and Cochrane databases were searched from 1989 to 2021. The PRISMA statement was used in the study selection process and the review was registered on PROSPERO. Furthermore, patient characteristics, operative technique, complications, and recurrences were searched.

RESULTS

Thirty-six articles were selected including 286 patients and 387 flaps. Axillary localization was mostly represented (83.2%). Direct donor site closure was achieved in 99.1% of cases. In total, 15.1% of the flaps presented at least one of the following complications: wound dehiscence (5.5%), partial necrosis (2.9%), hematoma or seroma (2.1%), infection (2.1%), venous congestion (1.8%), and nerve injury (0.3%). Two cases of total necrosis were recorded. Recurrence of the disease was observed in 2.7% of the defects.

CONCLUSIONS

Pedicled perforator flaps are a reliable and reproducible technique in the reconstruction of HS defects. They are associated with a low recurrence rate while ensuring an effective reconstruction with reduced morbidity and faster recovery compared to the techniques classically used in this indication.

Medical Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa with Non-Biologic Therapy: What's New?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a severe chronic relapsing inflammatory disorder of the hair follicle unit that can cause painful abscesses, nodules, tunnels, and tracts in intertriginous parts of the body. The disease can often result in disfigurement and adversely impact patient quality of life. The management of HS has expanded significantly over the past decade to include multiple modalities, including topical therapies, systemic therapies (non-biologics and biologics), surgical therapies, lifestyle changes, and management of comorbidities. Management can often be clinically challenging and may involve the combination of medical and surgical approaches for optimal results. The purpose of this review is to present an update on non-biologic and non-interventional modalities published in 2019-2021 in the clinical management of HS. With emerging therapies, ongoing clinical trials, and heightened awareness about HS, there is hope that new treatment options will revolutionize the management of patients suffering from HS.

Acellular dermal substitute use in the reconstruction of axillary hidradenitis suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic recurrent debilitating condition that affects the skin near to the follicular glands. The disease manifests with the formation of abscesses that can be complicated by rupture, sinus tracts, and scarring leading to pain, chronic discharge, malodor, and scar contractures. The management of HS is multidisciplinary, involving general lifestyle modification, medical treatment, and surgery. A wide range of surgical interventions has been described for HS disease control and management. However, surgical management strategies are highly variable. We describe the case of a 33-year-old female with refractory HS which was reconstructed with Matriderm® and an immediate split-thickness skin graft. Acellular dermal skin substitutes may be an alternative to conventional means of HS reconstruction, producing subtle, pliable, and durable skin.

Plastic Surgical Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Describe the pathogenesis of hidradenitis suppurativa. 2. Discuss perioperative multimodal therapy of hidradenitis suppurativa, including medical optimization. 3. Determine an appropriate surgical plan with excision and reconstruction based on hidradenitis suppurativa severity, size, and anatomical location.

SUMMARY

Successful treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa requires a multidisciplinary team approach and multimodal therapy.

Management of Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a devastating and disfiguring disease of the skin involving the terminal follicular epithelium within the apocrine-gland-bearing skin. We present an interesting case of a 58-year-old female who presented with a 10-year history of refractory HS of the gluteal, perineal, perianal, and groin region. She had been chronically treated with multiple antibiotics in the past with no improvement. The patient subsequently underwent surgical local excision with complex closure. Medical management alone may not be optimal, especially in refractory disease. Early and aggressive surgical intervention and interdisciplinary approach are needed for patients with chronic and advanced stage of HS.

Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp: A Review and Case Studies of Surgical Reconstruction

Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp (DCS) is a part of the follicular occlusion tetrad (hidradenitis, acne conglobata, and pilonidal disease). It is a spectrum disorder that can be severe and refractory to medical management. The authors describe 3 such cases successfully treated with surgical resection and reconstruction and present a scoring system for timely referral of such patients to a reconstructive surgical team.

Recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin condition characterized by recurrent painful abscesses usually limited to the intertriginous areas. Global prevalence has been estimated at up to 4% of the population. The exact pathogenesis of hidradenitis suppurativa is yet to be elucidated; however, recent research has shown that the disease occurs under the influence of multiple genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Repeated insults result in sinus tract formation and disfigurement, which can have a significant psychosocial effect on patients. A wide range of treatments are available but none are curative. A combination antibiotic regimen is considered first line, and research into the use of biologics has been promising. Early recognition and treatment is paramount to achieving a better prognosis and improving patient quality of life.

Fatal outcome of malignant transformation of hidradenitis suppurativa: A case report and literature review

Squamous cell carcinoma arising in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a rare albeit the most serious complication in HS, with a reported fatality of up to 42.9%. This calls for greater clinical awareness in patients with long-standing chronic HS.

Hidradenitis suppurativa: Current and emerging treatments

The treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) has remained challenging because of the many knowledge gaps regarding etiology. However, recent studies into the pathogenesis of HS have enabled the investigation of newer therapies. The second article in this continuing medical education series reviews the evidence for established therapies for HS, including anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, and surgery. New and emerging therapies that specifically target cytokines involved in HS pathogenesis will be covered. The potential therapeutic roles of anticytokine therapies, including both the expanded application of existing molecules as well as the specific development of novel therapies for HS are discussed. With increased attention on HS and with numerous clinical trials currently underway, we hope that the variety of treatment options for HS will be expanded.

Biologic Treatment for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are often undertreated and there are limited efficacious therapies available for treating this population. Biologics are an emerging therapeutic modality used in the management of many inflammatory conditions including HS. Implementation of biologics is typically reserved for moderate-to-severe cases or in those cases that are refractory to treatment. Though many biologics have been trialed for use in HS, only one biologic, adalimumab, is currently US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe HS. Limitations in the use of biologics for HS include the many scoring systems utilized in research studies and the relatively few well-designed, adequately powered clinical trials.

Management of Pilonidal Sinus Disease with the Aesthetically Shaped Parasacral Perforator Flap: Multicenter Evaluation of 228 Patients

BACKGROUND

The management of pilonidal sinus disease is still not standardized. Currently, the two main procedures are a lay-open excision procedure with secondary healing or coverage with local flaps. The authors present their experience with a one-stage excision-coverage with an innovative parasacral artery perforator flap propeller designed to respect the aesthetic unity of the buttocks.

METHODS

Study patients were managed with this procedure in the Toulouse, Montpellier, and Rennes university hospitals between 2012 and 2018. Data were collected on clinical and surgical details, immediate and late postoperative complications, and long-term recurrence. Aesthetic satisfaction was evaluated with a self-evaluation questionnaire.

RESULTS

The authors operated on 228 consecutive patients for pilonidal sinus disease with an aesthetically shaped parasacral artery perforator flap. The median patient age was 23.5 years, the median operative time was 46 minutes, the median flap length was 9.3 cm (range, 6.5 to 14 cm), and the median flap width was 4.1 cm (range, 4 to 6.5 cm). There were five distal necroses but no complete flap necrosis. There were six postoperative hematomas, 11 infections, and 18 wound dehiscences. The median follow-up period was 27.9 months. Median hospital length of stay was 4.2 days. Three recurrences of pilonidal sinus disease and six instances of hidradenitis suppurativa were detected. Approximately 82 percent of the women and more than 85 percent of the men were "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with the aesthetic outcome, without significant differences between the sexes (p = 0.901).

CONCLUSIONS

The aesthetically shaped parasacral artery perforator flap combines very satisfactory results regarding recurrence and postoperative recovery with cosmetic outcome. This procedure is technically more demanding than other flap procedures, although it is accessible to numerous surgeons as the first-line treatment for pilonidal sinus disease after initial learning.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.