Ahwatukee
Specialty Clinic
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) Diagnosis and Treatment in Phoenix, AZ
Arizona’s Premier Specialty Clinic for Complex and Difficult Cases
Carsten Hamann, MD, PhD, and Dathan Hamann, MD: Hidradenitis Suppurativa Specialists
Looking for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) Specialists Near Me?
The providers at the Saguaro Dermatology HS Clinic are highly specialized in the comprehensive diagnosis and management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa, particularly complex and difficult-to-treat cases. Because we see HS every single day, we provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plans, ensuring every patient receives a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to their care.
Our deep expertise plays a critical role in carefully tailoring and adjusting therapeutic approaches to achieve the best possible outcomes. We understand that HS is not a “one size fits all” condition; we manage the full spectrum of the disease, including:
- Mild to Severe HS: Expert staging and management of all Hurley stages.
- Specialized Populations: Compassionate, tailored care for adolescents and those managing HS during pregnancy.
- Comprehensive Modalities: A diverse toolkit ranging from advanced surgical procedures to holistic and non-invasive lifestyle-based approaches.
A Commitment to Research and Advocacy
This specialization is built on advanced clinical experience and a dedication to the global HS community. Saguaro Dermatology is proud to be a recognized part of the HS Foundation and HS Connect, ensuring our patients have access to the most current resources and advocacy networks.
Furthermore, our commitment to advancing the field is demonstrated by our active participation in HS clinical trials for more than two years. This allows us to offer cutting-edge insights and sustained disease response strategies, even when previous traditional treatments have failed.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, non-contagious, inflammatory skin condition that causes painful, recurring boils in areas with sweat glands. In severe cases, these boils can break open, resulting in pus draining weeping boils or making tunnels under your skin. HS is most likely to develop where your skin rubs together, such as underarms, groin, or between the buttocks. Currently, there is no cure for this condition, but many good treatments are available to manage symptoms. HS often appears around puberty, and it is more common in women and individuals of African descent. Another name for HS is acne inversa and it is reasonable to think of this condition as a form of scarring acne of the body folds.
What causes HS?
Pathogenesis of HS is not clear. However, HS is considered as an autoinflammatory disease of the hair follicles and oil glands and sweat glands. This means that inflammation gathers around your hair follicles leading to the development of HS. The severity of the condition can vary, with some individuals experiencing mild symptoms and others having more severe and extensive lesions.
Symptoms of HS
The main symptom of HS is the development of lumps under the skin that can be painful and tend to enlarge and drain pus. HS symptoms may come and go. HS symptoms can vary in severity, and depending on the severity, HS can be graded from stage I (mild) to III (severe). Some common symptoms of HS are:
- Painful, red bumps or nodules: HS often starts with small, painful, and inflamed bumps or nodules that may appear in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groins, buttocks, and under the breasts. These bumps can be tender to the touch.
- Abscesses: The nodules can progress to larger, painful abscesses filled with pus. These can rupture, draining foul smelling pus.
- Tunnels and tracts: Over time, tunnels or tracts may form under the skin, connecting the affected areas. These can be deep and often painful.
- Scarring: As the condition persists, it can lead to the formation of scars, which can be extensive and disfiguring in severe cases.
- Recurring flare-ups: HS is characterized by recurrent flare-ups and remissions. Symptoms may worsen during times of stress, hormonal changes, or when the affected areas become irritated.
- Pain and discomfort: HS can be quite painful, making it uncomfortable to move or perform daily activities, especially when abscesses or nodules are present.
- Draining pus and odor: The drainage of pus from the abscesses can have a foul odor, which can be distressing for individuals with HS.
- Skin thickening: In some cases, the skin in the affected areas may become thicker and develop a cobblestone like appearance.
Where can HS affect?
HS primarily affects areas of the body where there are sweat glands and hair follicles. The most commonly affected areas include
- Armpits
- Groin
- Buttocks
- Under the breasts
- Perianal area (area around the anus)
- Between the fingers and toes.
It is worth noting that HS is a condition that varies from person to person, and it can potentially develop in other regions where sweat glands and hair follicles are present.
Is HS contagious?
No, HS is not contagious. As HS is an autoinflammatory disease not a disease caused by an infection (virus or bacteria) it will not pass from one person to another.
Can HS be cured or reversed?
Currently, there is no cure for HS. However, there are various treatment options available that can help to manage and control the symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and improve the quality of life.
Michael McBride, DO, consults with a patient about treatment.
How can we prevent and manage HS?
While it may not be entirely preventable in all cases, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing HS or manage the conditions if you already have it. Some common preventive measures include:
- Weight management: Obesity is a risk factor for HS. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of developing HS and may also improve symptoms in individuals who already have conditions.
- Quit smoking if you are a tobacco user: Smoking is associated with a higher risk of developing HS and can worsen the condition in those who already have it. Therefore quitting smoking can be a crucial step in managing HS.
- Avoid tight clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics to reduce friction and irritation in areas prone to HS lesions.
- Manage sweating: Excessive sweating can exacerbate HS. You can try strategies such as staying indoors when it is hot outside. However, as the use of antiperspirants/deodorants seems to worsen HS in some individuals 2, it is better to use caution when managing sweating with those products.
- Avoid shaving affected areas: Shaving can irritate the skin and potentially worsen HS. If possible, it is better to avoid shaving in areas prone to HS lesions.
- Manage stress: High levels of stress can trigger or exacerbate HS symptoms. Stress management techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises might help with HS symptoms.
What treatments are available for HS?
Treatment options may include antibiotics, topical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and in severe cases, surgical interventions or biological medications. A dermatologist is the healthcare provider typically best equipped to diagnose and manage HS. Some of the common treatment options include following:
Are there natural HS treatments?
Some natural remedies may help with the HS symptoms. As there is limited scientific evidence for the safety and efficacy of these home remedies, consider talking to a doctor before taking supplements or using essential oil or other home remedies.
- Tea tree oil: Some people with HS have reported relief from applying diluted tea tree oil to affected areas. Be cautious when using essential oils, as they can irritate your skin. Always dilute them and perform a patch test first.
- Zinc: Low blood zinc levels were more common in individuals with HS compared to healthy individuals and correlated to the severity of the disease 6 . While more research needs to be done to explore whether or not zinc supplements are beneficial for treating HS, zinc supplements may help with HS symptoms.
- Neem oil: As neem oil can reduce redness and inflammation, it may also help heal HS scars. When using on the skin, it should be mixed with a carrier oil or aloe vera.
- Apple cider vinegar: As apple cider vinegar can prevent bacterial infection, it can be used on HS lesions.
Consult a HS specialist at Saguaro Dermatology in Phoenix, AZ
HS can significantly impact a person’s quality of life due to pain, discomfort, and potential scarring it causes. If you suspect you have HS or are experiencing symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. Early interventions and proper management can help reduce symptoms and improve the condition’s long-term outlook. The team at Saguaro Dermatology has successfully treated individuals with a multitude of skin conditions, including HS. Our board-certified dermatologists along with our caring and experienced staff are always ready to help you at Saguaro Dermatology, conveniently located at four campuses in Ahwatukee, Central Phoenix, Mesa, and Paradise Valley
Saguaro Dermatology Reviews
Wendy L.
I had an awesome experience with Dr Hamann and staff. I was very comfortable and i was able to have all my questions answered without feeling rushed. The staff was courteous and welcoming.
Itaro Elaisa
“I totally recommend this place to anyone who’s looking for a dermatologist who’s professional, informative, respectful and very helpful. They are quick to solve your problems and get you home.”
Robert P.
Staff was friendly, & on time. office is super clean!! Doctor was awesome, felt like a family member taking care of me.
Kristin U
“Dr Dathan and the team were very helpful, kind and knowledgeable. Plus, there was no wait time so I was able to get back to work faster than expected. I would highly recommend.”
Sally S.
“Very friendly and professional. I had a great experience, Dr. Hamann was very good at answering my questions and concerns. I will certainly come back for another visit.”
Amanda C.
Great doctor and friendly, professional staff. The doctor spends time listening and answering questions, something rare to find anymore. The office is beautiful and very clean. I love all the artwork with saguaros.
Kylin L.
“The office was recently renovated–it is a beautiful, clean, and calm environment. I would highly recommend this practice for anyone who is looking for a general dermatologist.”
L
Dr. Hamann is very knowledgeable, nice, and professional. You can tell that he truly cares about his patients by the way he operates. He took the time to listen to all of my concerns then address them with good, well-informed answers.
About Saguaro Dermatology
Our comprehensive dermatology clinic is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care, innovative practices, helpful resources and state-of-the-art technology to prevent and treat a multitude of skin disorders. Led by Carsten R. Hamann, MD, PhD, Dathan Hamann, MD, FAAD, Michael McBride, DO, Millard Thaler, MD, Mohs Surgeon and Jenna Wald, MD, Mohs Surgeon, our passionate team looks forward to serving you with respect and compassion.
