How are hidradenitis suppurativa tunnels treated?
Tunnels in HS are typically treated with a combination of surgery and medications, depending on their severity and location.
Surgical options include:
- Deroofing (unroofing): The surgeon removes the "roof" or top layer of skin over the tunnel and scrapes out the tissue Show Full Answer
How are hidradenitis suppurativa tunnels treated?
Tunnels in HS are typically treated with a combination of surgery and medications, depending on their severity and location.
Surgical options include:
- Deroofing (unroofing): The surgeon removes the "roof" or top layer of skin over the tunnel and scrapes out the tissue inside. This is often used for moderate to severe HS and can be done with a laser or traditional surgical tools. The healthy cells from hair follicles and sweat glands help heal the wound.
- Wide excision: For more severe cases or tunnels that don't respond to other treatments, the entire tunnel along with surrounding fat or skin is removed. The wound may be left to heal on its own or require a skin graft.
- Incision and drainage: This provides temporary relief by draining fluid or pus from abscesses, though tunnels often return with this approach.
Medications like biologics can help reduce inflammation and clear up nodules and abscesses, which may prevent new tunnels from forming.
Early treatment is key - getting care when you first notice new bumps can help stop tunnels from developing and reduce the chance of them getting worse.
April 1
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