Hidradenitis suppurativa (Verneuil’s disease)

Hidradenitis suppurativa, or Verneuil’s disease, is somewhat common, especially in women, but is often unrecognized. Clinical manifestations include painful nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts, and ropelike hypertrophic scars in the apocrine gland-bearing areas. It is a chronic disease. Severe dramatic forms are rare. Treatment is both medical and surgical: wide-spectrum antibiotics and excisions tailored to the extent of involvement. Quality of life is severely affected even in mild forms.