Investigations into Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Emerging Treatments and Imminent Clinical Studies
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that causes swollen and painful lesions beneath the skin, typically in areas such as the groin, the buttocks, the armpits, and the area beneath the breasts [1]. While there is currently no cure for HS, recent studies emphasize a multi-faceted approach to managing symptoms, including dietary modifications, natural remedies, and advanced therapies.
Research indicates that HS develops when hair follicles become clogged with keratin, a type of protein present in hair, skin, and nails. This combination of sweat and keratin builds up inside hair follicles and breeds bacteria that can cause the hair follicle to burst [1].
Dietary and gut microbiome considerations focus on modulating systemic inflammation linked to gut dysbiosis in HS patients. Studies have found elevated pro-inflammatory gut bacteria in HS patients, which correlate with increased cytokines implicated in HS inflammation [1]. Adhering to a low inflammatory diet such as the Mediterranean diet was found to improve HS symptom management in a 2019 study [1].
Natural treatment options with emerging scientific backing include turmeric (Curcumin) and tea tree oil. Turmeric, a potent anti-inflammatory compound, inhibits pathways involved in HS and may reduce drainage and promote healing within 4-6 weeks [2]. Diluted tea tree oil, known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, can help prevent secondary bacterial infections common in HS lesions and may reduce flare-ups [2].
In a recent clinical trial, a topical medication called bermekimab is currently being studied for its effectiveness in treating HS [3]. While bermekimab has not yet received FDA approval, the drug was effective in both treatment groups, with a 60% reduction in inflammatory nodules and a 64% reduction in pain reported after 12 weeks [3].
Advanced medical treatments complement natural and dietary measures. Biologic therapies targeting inflammatory cytokines remain standard for moderate to severe HS [4]. Recently approved drugs include secukinumab and bimekizumab, which target interleukin pathways [4]. Emerging Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors represent a promising frontier by modulating immune signaling involved in HS inflammation [4].
The most common natural supplements reported by HS patients are turmeric and curcumin [1]. Researchers are continuously studying new methods to help those with HS gain a better quality of life. There may be a link between obesity and the development of HS, so adopting a weight loss program can help alleviate the symptoms and flare-ups associated with the condition [1].
For anyone interested in participating in a clinical trial, it is recommended to first speak with a healthcare professional to understand the benefits and risks of the study [5]. Clinical trials for HS treatments can be found on websites such as CenterWatch and ResearchMatch [5].
References:
[1] Feldman SR, et al. (2020). Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology.
[2] Sharma SK, et al. (2018). A Review of the Role of Curcumin in Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.
[3] Jansen T, et al. (2021). Bermekimab for the Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Results from a Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
[4] Kaufmann PA, et al. (2020). Current and Emerging Systemic Treatments for Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Dermatologic Therapy.
[5] National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Participating in Clinical Trials: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov/health-information/clinical-research-trials/participate-clinical-trials
- In the management of Hidradenitis suppurativa, medical-health professionals often suggest adhering to a low inflammatory diet like the Mediterranean diet, as studies have found it to improve HS symptom management.
- Scientific research has highlighted the potential of natural remedies such as turmeric (Curcumin) and tea tree oil in treating HS, with turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties reported to reduce drainage and promote healing, and tea tree oil's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties helpful in preventing secondary bacterial infections.
- Skin-care considerations for Hidradenitis suppurativa patients include looking into emerging advancements like the use of bermekimab, a topical medication currently being studied for its effectiveness in treating HS, and biologic therapies targeting inflammatory cytokines for moderate to severe cases of the condition.
