Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes painful lumps, abscesses and tunnels beneath the skin, most commonly affecting the armpits, groin, buttocks and under the breasts.

Over time, repeated inflammation can lead to scarring and interconnected sinus tracts beneath the skin. Deroofing is a minor surgical procedure used to treat persistent tunnels associated with hidradenitis suppurativa.

At Brighton Dermatology, deroofing may be recommended for suitable patients with chronic or recurrent HS.

Symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa may include:

• Painful lumps beneath the skin
• Recurrent boils or abscesses
• Persistent drainage from affected areas
• Tunnels (sinus tracts) beneath the skin
• Scarring following repeated inflammation

The condition often follows a cycle of flare-ups and healing.

Treatment depends on the severity of hidradenitis suppurativa and may include medications, lifestyle modifications and procedural treatments.

For selected patients with persistent tunnels, deroofing can be an effective option.

During the procedure, the "roof" of the tunnel is carefully removed while preserving the healthy tissue beneath. This allows the area to heal from the inside out and may reduce recurrent inflammation in the treated area.

Your dermatologist will discuss whether deroofing is appropriate based on the severity and extent of your condition.

If you experience recurrent painful boils, draining lesions or ongoing scarring, it is important to seek specialist assessment.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce disease progression and improve long-term outcomes.