Increased Burden of Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Patients with Concomitant Arthritis: Insights from a Multicenter Study

New Study Reveals Increased Burden of Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Patients with Arthritis

A groundbreaking study published in the International Journal of Dermatology has unveiled alarming insights into the challenges faced by patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) who also suffer from concomitant arthritis. The research indicates that these individuals experience a significantly greater disease burden compared to those with HS alone, highlighting the urgent need for tailored treatment strategies.

The study, which involved a cohort of 272 participants from 10 hospitals across Spain, found that patients with HS and inflammatory arthritis endure persistent pain, stiff joints, decreased mobility, and severe psychological distress. Many of these patients report being undertreated or intolerant to existing therapies, despite the availability of diverse treatment options ranging from biologics and surgical interventions to antibiotics and hormonal therapies.

“Patients with HS and arthritis face a unique set of challenges that require a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach,” said Dr. Pablo Garbayo-Salmons, lead author of the study. “Integrating dermatology, rheumatology, pain management, and rehabilitation is crucial to improving outcomes and quality of life for these individuals.”

The research revealed that approximately 1.70% of HS patients also have arthritis, with spondyloarthritis being the most prevalent subtype. The study’s findings underscore the importance of understanding the cumulative illness load in this subgroup, as well as the real-world treatment patterns that can inform more effective therapeutic strategies.

Among the key findings, the study reported that immune-mediated diseases such as psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease were significantly associated with HS patients who also had arthritis. This connection highlights the complexity of managing multiple inflammatory conditions simultaneously.

As the prevalence of HS continues to rise, the need for optimized resources and multidisciplinary treatment approaches has never been more critical. The study advocates for focused therapies that not only reduce morbidity but also enhance the overall quality of life for patients grappling with the dual challenges of HS and arthritis.

With the insights gained from this research, healthcare providers are urged to reconsider treatment protocols and collaborate across specialties to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs.

For more information, refer to the full study: Garbayo-Salmons, P., et al. (2025). “Disease burden and treatment patterns in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa and concomitant arthritis: A multicenter case-control study.” International Journal of Dermatology. DOI: 10.1111/ijd.70125.