Patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) who have negative social, emotional, and medical experience related to their disease have worse quality of life, according to a study published in the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology. The results especially impact women, who are twice as likely to be diagnosed with HS.
This study consisted of 243 individuals in the community-based convenience sample. The study subjects were given a cross-sectional survey about their experiences and quality of life.
According to the results, the subjects reported high rates of anxiety, embarrassment, and depression. These, as well other negative emotions were common among people with HS during interactions with healthcare providers and romantic partners.
“Providers should consider how patients experience patient -provider communication about HS, and how this communication impacts other areas of patients’ lives, including quality of life, mental health, and romantic relationships,” the researchers concluded. They added that: “Future care approaches should prioritize mental health strategies in HS patients’ care plans and establish partnerships between dermatology practices and mental health professionals to aid in the multidisciplinary approach recommended for the treatment of HS.”
