Alcohol Use and Hidradenitis Suppurativa: An Unclear Relationship.

Abstract

Background: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) may be linked to behavioral factors that exacerbate inflammation, gut microbiome, and healing.

Summary: This review evaluates current evidence on the relationship between alcohol consumption and HS. Emerging studies show high incidences of alcohol and substance use disorders in HS patients. However, observational studies remain inconsistent: HS patients may experience higher alcohol-related burden, yet its association to disease progression and baseline severity remains unclear. Limitations of existing studies include self-reported exposures of alcohol, heterogeneous outcome measures, and potential confounding factors, such as stress.

Key messages: Biologic plausibility remains, as alcohol can promote dysbiosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress that may influence disease activity and healing. This review highlights the need for larger, controlled trials that determine whether the reduction or elimination of alcohol may improve HS outcomes.