Hidradenitis suppurativa (acne inversa): review of the literature and case report on the surgical treatment of a presternal lesion

ABSTRACT

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic debilitating and stigmatizing disease that is difficult to treat. The disease presents several clinical characteristics, which may occur alone or simultaneously in various locations, generally symmetrical and distributed in the “milk line”. It affects the following areas of the skin where intertriginous apocrine glands are numerous, in the descending order: axilla, anogenital region, areolas, and inframammary crease. Its insidious progression begins with formation of subcutaneous nodules that rupture and/or coalesce, forming extremely painful abscesses in the deep dermis. The lesions often drain foul purulent exudate, with significant damage to quality of life. As the disease progresses, formation of fistulas, comedones, fibrosis, dermal contractures, and hardening of the skin occur. The highest chances of cure are lie in early diagnosis and individualized treatment, which covers pharmacological, behavioral, and surgical measures. Surgical treatment has been considered a more effective curative measure. The decision between the different modalities will depend on the stage, presentation, and local commitment and include incision and drainage of abscesses, deroofing, marsupialization, electrosurgery, Nd:YAG laser, CO2

laser, and extensive surgical excision. The reconstruction options

include healing by second intention, immediate or delayed fullthickness skin graft, primary closure, and flaps. The reported case of presternal injuries presented clinical and histological characteristics compatible with hidradenitis suppurativa; this location has been rarely reported in the literature. The postoperative results of complete resection of the lesion with primary closure indicated resolution over a long follow-up period. More randomized clinical trials are needed to determine the best management strategy for hidradenitis suppurativa.

Keywords:
Hidradenitis suppurativa; Sternum/injuries; Reconstructive surgical procedures