Abnormalities in the deep part of the hair follicle may be revealed by ultrasonography in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. Perilesional clinically normal hair follicles in the genitofemoral area demonstrate an abnormal shape and are significantly wider in the deep part of the dermis in individuals with hidradenitis suppurativa compared with those in unaffected individuals.
Neither ultrasonography nor laboratory studies are needed for a diagnosis of hidradenitis suppurativa to be made. A clinical diagnosis requires the presence of three key elements: typical lesions, characteristic distribution, and recurrence.
The primary histologic feature in hidradenitis suppurativa mimics that seen in acne vulgaris: hyperkeratosis of the infundibulum that results in comedo-like horny impactions.
Learn more about the workup for hidradenitis suppurativa.
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Cite this: William D. James. Fast Five Quiz: Hidradenitis Suppurativa - Medscape - Nov 05, 2019.
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