Hidradenitis suppurativa treatment in Sussex
Dr Pallavi Gupta runs a regional hidradenitis suppurativa clinic across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex — specialist diagnosis and treatment.
Consultation time
45 to 60 minutes
Treated by
Consultant dermatologists
Treatment options
Multiple modalities
What is hidradenitis suppurativa?
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), sometimes called acne inversa, is a chronic, painful skin condition that causes inflamed nodules, abscesses, and sinus tracts. It typically affects areas where skin rubs together — the underarms, groin, under the breasts, buttocks, and inner thighs.
HS affects roughly 1-4% of the population. It's significantly more common in women than men (around 3:1) and usually develops in young adulthood. The condition fluctuates between periods of flare-up and remission, and can have a substantial impact on quality of life.
Despite being relatively common, HS is often undiagnosed for years — many patients see multiple doctors and try multiple treatments before getting a correct diagnosis. Early, specialist care makes a real difference.
How we diagnose hidradenitis suppurativa
HS is diagnosed clinically, based on the typical lesions, locations (skin folds), recurrence pattern, and chronicity. There's no specific test — diagnosis comes from experience. A skin biopsy may be used to rule out other conditions in atypical cases.
We assess severity using the Hurley staging system (I, II, III) to guide treatment, and discuss the impact on your daily life.
How we treat hidradenitis suppurativa
Treatment depends on severity and individual factors. Options include:
