Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an uncommon chronic skin condition that can range in severity from a single nodule to extensive disease and can have a profound effect on quality of life. Anti-androgen medication has been suggested as a possible management strategy in female patients with HS and is mentioned in review articles as a treatment option. Despite this, there is limited literature documenting the use of anti-androgens in HS. We present our experience with 20 patients with HS treated with oral spironolactone. We advocate spironolactone as a useful, low-cost first-line treatment for women with HS, with relatively few side-effects.
Keywords: anti-androgen; hidradenitis suppurativa; spironolactone.
© 2015 The Australasian College of Dermatologists.