Acne inversa: an epidemiologic study by the Adnexa Group

Hidradenitis suppurativa – also known as acne inverse – is a chronically relapsing inflammatory disease that is characterized by recurrent draining sinuses and abscesses, fistulas and scarring. Different from acne vulgaris, acne inversa is localized in non-facial regions, where there are terminal and pigmented hairs and apocrine glands, as in the axillae, groins, perineum, mons pubis and scalp. Treatment options include antiseptics, corticosteroids and antibiotics, such as tetracycline, clindamycin or rifampicin. Unfortunately, they have all been tried with limited success and recurrence after stopping the therapy are very commons, making the disease a source of frustration for dermatologist and patient alike. Surgical excision and drainage or exteriorization of individual lesions may be useful in the large nodular lesions. Carbon dioxide laser excision is another treatment option. In the last years several studies have showed the effectiveness of etanercept in the treatment of acne inverse. Etanercept would be a safe and effective therapy for hidradenitis suppurativa and decrease the extent of the disease and improves the quality of life. Future studies are indicated to elucidate fully the role of etanercept in the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa.