HS is actually staged using the Hurley staging system, which only goes up to Stage 3 — there is no Stage 4. Here's a quick breakdown of all three stages:
- Stage 1 (Mild): One or a few abscesses, no tunnels (sinus tracts) or scarring. Most common stage, affecting around 68% of people with HS
- Stage 2 (Moderate): Show Full Answer
HS is actually staged using the Hurley staging system, which only goes up to Stage 3 — there is no Stage 4. Here's a quick breakdown of all three stages:
- Stage 1 (Mild): One or a few abscesses, no tunnels (sinus tracts) or scarring. Most common stage, affecting around 68% of people with HS.
- Stage 2 (Moderate): Recurring sores in multiple areas, some scarring, and a few tunnels connecting nodules. Affects around 28% of people with HS.
- Stage 3 (Severe): Multiple lesions with extensive tunnels and scarring, possibly covering the entire affected area. When HS affects the groin specifically, it can be especially challenging because the groin is a high-friction, high-sweat area. At more severe stages, lesions in the groin may require surgical treatment. Depending on the location and extent of the lesions, specialists like a urologist, gynecologist, or reconstructive surgeon may be involved in care.
Recovery from groin surgery can be particularly tough since sitting and movement may be painful in the early weeks. It's always worth having a detailed conversation with your dermatologist or surgeon about what to expect.
3 days ago