Skip to main content

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Specialist

Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago

Dermatology located in River North, Chicago, IL

You might mistake persistent or recurring sores under the armpits, breasts, or groin area for ingrown hairs or acne. Instead, these symptoms can indicate a chronic inflammatory skin condition called hidradenitis suppurativa. At Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago in the River North neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, expert dermatologists manage symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa like pain, sores, and scarring. To book an appointment, call the office or use the online booking button today.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Q&A

What is hidradenitis suppurativa?

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a skin condition characterized by chronic inflammation deep within the skin. You might mistake it for another inflammatory skin condition, such as acne or herpes, when you first develop symptoms. However, it’s a distinct condition that requires individualized care.

Some cases are mild enough that treatment isn’t necessary, but you should book an appointment for a treatment consultation at Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago if your symptoms cause pain or flare up often. 

What are the symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa?

The majority of hidradenitis suppurativa symptoms appear in areas where there are many sweat glands in the skin, such as the armpits or groin area. Any symptoms you get tend to heal slowly before eventually reappearing later. 

Hidradenitis suppurativa causes a variety of symptoms that vary in severity among individuals who have the condition. It might affect several areas of your body or just one at a time. Some common features of hidradenitis suppurativa flare-ups include:

  • Pea-sized lumps
  • Blackheads
  • Pitting skin or tunnels in the skin
  • Leaking sores
  • Pain and soreness

Which treatments are available for hidradenitis suppurativa?

The team at Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago develops an individualized care plan for your hidradenitis suppurativa symptoms. The condition has no cure, but you can reduce your symptoms and flare-ups. The team might use:

Injections

Hidradenitis suppurativa responds well to injectable treatments like steroids and biologics. 

Topical products

Topical products for hidradenitis suppurativa include topical antibiotics in cream or gel form. This helps relieve and prevent infections of the skin. 

Oral medications

Oral medications can also help treat hidradenitis suppurativa, including hormone pills and oral retinoids. 

For highly severe cases, surgery may be an option to treat scarring from hidradenitis suppurativa. Surgery can also remove and replace affected skin with a skin graft. 

To schedule an appointment and learn more about treatment options for hidradenitis suppurativa, call Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago or book an appointment online today.