Exploring the Association of Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Hyperthyroidism

Introduction

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is an inflammatory disease affecting pilosebaceous skin units that has been linked with several autoimmune conditions. Hyperthyroidism is most commonly seen in Grave's Disease, an autoimmune condition that results in a hypermetabolic state. The aim of this study is to explore and establish the relationship between HS and hyperthyroidism in order to investigate the potential implications in patient care.

Methods

Data from the National Institute of Health (NIH) All of Us Researcher Program (AoU), was used to evaluate the relationship between hyperthyroidism and HS. A cross-sectional study was performed to evaluate the prevalence of HS in individuals with and without a history of hyperthyroidism matched by age ranges and health surveys. Significance and relative risk were obtained using standard statistical procedures.

Results

A total of 407,333 patients were matched by age range and health surveys in both the experimental and control groups. Amongst patients with a history of hyperthyroidism, the prevalence of HS was 1.40% compared to 0.38% in the control group. This difference was statistically significant by p<0.0001 with an OR=3.717, 95% CI 3.038-4.548.

Conclusion

The study shows a statistically significant correlation between hyperthyroidism and increased prevalence of HS. These results warrant further research regarding hyperthyroidism's role in HS and the potential screening tools and lifestyle management techniques that may be prevalent for both conditions. Implementation of patient education in those with hyperthyroidism about the signs and symptoms of HS may prompt earlier seeking of medical care and improved timelines for diagnosis and management.