Hidradenitis Signs

Hidradenitis is a disease that usually begins as pimple-like bumps on the skin. The pimple-like bumps tend to develop in places that everyday pimples do not appear. Hidradenitis is most common on the underarms and groin.

Some people say that their hidradenitis looks like one of these skin conditions:
Pimples
Deep-acne like cysts and blackheads
Folliculitis (looks like swollen pimple with a hair in the center)
Boils

Getting treatment for HS is important. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent HS from worsening. If hidradenitis worsens, the pimple-like bumps can grow deep into the skin and become painful. They can rupture, leaking bloodstained pus onto clothing. This fluid often has a foul odor. As the deep bumps heal, scars can form. Some people develop tunnel-like tracts under their skin. As the skin continues to heal and scar, the scars thicken. When thick scars form in the underarm, moving the arm can be difficult. Thick scars in the groin area can make walking difficult. Because hidradenitis can look lot like acne, folliculitis, or boils, it is best to see a dermatologist for a diagnosis. To a dermatologist’s trained eye, the differences between hidradenitis and other skin diseases are subtle but obvious. Proper treatment depends on an accurate diagnosis.