Medical dermatology · Inflammatory skin disease
Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory disease causing painful lumps, abscesses and tunnels in the armpits, groin and under the breasts. Dermatologists treat it with antibiotics, hormonal therapy, biologics such as adalimumab, and surgery.
Overview
It is often misdiagnosed as recurrent boils. Early specialist care limits scarring.
At a glance
Treatment
Topical clindamycin, oral antibiotics, biologics, steroid injections, deroofing surgery.
Lifestyle
Stopping smoking and weight management.
Insurance
Biologics may be covered for eligible patients.
Frequently asked questions
Is it caused by poor hygiene?
No.
Is it contagious?
No.
Can surgery cure it?
Surgery helps affected areas; medical therapy controls disease.
Related
Choose a specialist
Medical skin conditions need a dermatology specialist
Many Korean “skin clinics” focus on cosmetic procedures and may not treat skin disease. Board-certified dermatologists (피부과 전문의) are trained to diagnose and treat it, and medical dermatology is partly covered by Korea’s National Health Insurance. This page is general information, not medical advice.