Acne Inversa

Acne Inversa Symptoms

The symptoms of acne inversa may appear during puberty or even later, with women and men between 20 and 30 years of age being most often affected by this skin disease. The inflammation spreads in the skin, sebaceous and sweat glands and leads to purulent, painful abscesses and fistula formations. Often these infections leave scars on the skin, especially in the so-called intertrigines, the folds of skin such as the armpits, groin and also around the anus.

The diagnosis of acne inversa, also known as hidradenitis suppurativa or Verneuil's disease, is based on the classification into three degrees of severity:

Hurley Grade I

• Single or many painful abscesses without scarring.

Hurley Grade II

• Repeated painful abscesses with strand formation and scarring.

Hurley Grade III

• Plate-like scarring, many abscesses and strands, painful restriction of motion.

Acne Inversa Causes

The exact cause of acne inversa is not known, but there are some factors that may contribute to the development of the disease.

Often follicular hyperkeratosis can be detected, i.e. excessive keratinization of the hair sheath cells. This causes the hair to grow into the skin and bacteria to accumulate in the closed cavity, leading to the destruction of the hair follicle. As a result, the sweat glands become inflamed.

The disease runs in families, which means it has a hereditary component. About 90% of sufferers are smokers and most patients are overweight and sweat heavily.

Tight-fitting clothes worsen the situation, and regular shaving of underarm and intimate hair is also cited as a cause.

Acne Inversa Treatment

The treatment of acne inversa includes classical therapy methods as well as additional treatment methods that we offer in our clinic:

Classic treatments

In addition to disinfecting washing preparations and creams, short-term antibiotic administration and, if necessary, long-term biologicals, surgical procedures are also used for the treatment of acne inversa. In these, individual nodules and fistula tracts can be excised, or in severe forms of the disease, large-scale surgical removal of the diseased areas may be necessary. For the opening of fistula tracts we use ablative lasers.

Laser and light treatments

• In the early phases of the disease, the thorough Laser epilation in the diseased area plays an important role. Consistently remove the hair in the affected area and thus avoid shaving, which could lead to bacterial infections or ingrown hairs.
• With Kleresca in particular, inflammation can be relieved and scarring processes alleviated.

Injections

The active ingredient Botulinum toxin is also used to treat hidradenitis suppurativa. It specifically blocks the nerve impulses sent to the sweat glands. After the application of botulinum toxin, sweating can be "exhibited" locally for up to 6 months. This helps to dry out the affected areas, resulting in less inflammation.

In our clinic, we attach great importance to comprehensive consultation and support you with professional care products that are specially tailored to the needs of patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. By combining classic and innovative treatment methods, we aim to positively influence the course of this chronic skin disease and improve the quality of life of those affected.

Acne Inversa Frequently Asked Questions