Immunology:
Our other therapeutic areas

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      • What is HS?1

      Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that is expressed through repeated painful inflamed nodules or abscesses localized at the level of the skin folds. HS is sometimes referred to as ‘Acne Inversa’ or ‘Verneuil’s disease’.

      HS is most common in the armpits and groin area, but can also occur under the breasts, in skin folds of the abdomen, as well as around the buttocks, genitals and anus. HS usually starts after puberty and three-quarters of patients are women. Studies have shown that 1%-2% of the adult population suffers from HS to varying degrees.


      Facts1,2

      HS affects women 3 times more often than men.

      One out of three HS patients have relatives who suffer from the same condition.

      In most cases, the first symptoms of HS arise in the early twenties.

      For most patients, symptoms regress after the age of 50.

      Smoking & being overweight are considered risk factors for HS.

      Approximately 1% of the Belgian population suffers from HS.

      Rubbing affected skin promotes inflammation.


      Myths

      HS is a contagious aadisease.aa

      HS is induced by a lack of hygiene.

      HS is a rare aaaadisease.aaaa

      HS is a sexually transmitted disease.

      HS cannot be aaaatreated.aaaa

      A serious impact on quality of life

      Watch the video below to learn how the life of three Belgian patients with HS has been impacted by the condition.

      HS Patient testimonial 

      Useful documents & links 

      testimonial-fr

      HS-Online.be provides visitors of information on Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Furthermore, one can compare symptoms with approved pictures, prepare a consultation guide for a dermatologist visit, complete a test to check for HS risk, and much more.

      Visit the website via this link.

      A comprehensive brochure for patients to explore the course of the disease, the treatment options, and to learn how to live with the condition.

      Download it here.

      1. Dufour DN, Emtestam L., Jemec GB.. Hidradenitis suppurativa: a common and burdensome, yet under-recognised, inflammatory skin disease. Postgrad Med J 2014;90:216–21
      2. Sabat, R., Jemec, G.B.E., Matusiak, Ł. et al. Hidradenitis suppurativa. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2020;6:18

      AbbVie SA/NV - BE-ABBV-220074 (v1.0) - May 2022