Unmet Therapeutic Needs in Hidradenitis Suppurativa From Patients’ and Physicians’ Perspective in Greece

INTRODUCTION: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can progress to significant tunnels and scars that affect severely quality of life, especially if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. Clinical management is challenging and consists of both medical and surgical approaches, which must often be combined for best outcomes. Therapeutic approaches have evolved rapidly in the last decade and include the use of topical therapies, systemic antibiotics, hormonal therapies, and a wide range of immunomodulating medications.

OBJECTIVES: The present study was conducted to understand disease management and challenges faced by patients with HS in Greece.

METHODS: The survey was conducted via a structured questionnaire and patients’ recruitment was implemented via physicians. All patients signed a Consent Form to participate in the survey.

RESULTS: Twelve patients with HS participated in the survey. Half of patients report facing challenges in terms of previous treatments, with the lack of effectiveness being the major one, and 75% of patients declare that the primary reason for switching dermatologist was treatment’s lack of effectiveness. The top 3 expectations of patients regarding treatment are durable response to treatment, quality of life improvement and prevention of future surgeries. Most important challenges HS patients face are the long period until diagnosis and the ineffective treatments.

CONCLUSIONS: Patients’ perspectives substantiated major challenges in HS management. Ongoing efforts and strategies to help improve delivery of care may include public awareness campaigns, and transparent and compassionate patient–physician interactions about HS. It is crucial to disseminate up-to-date information to all health-care providers to ensure appropriate treatment for HS patients. Although there is no cure for HS, symptoms can be managed if the appropriate diagnosis is made on time. By addressing these challenges, we can improve the quality of life for individuals living with HS and reduce the burden of this chronic disease.