Hidradenitis suppurativa

[ShamSham]

Does anyone know about Hidradenitis suppurativa?  My symptoms of the swollen red sore puss filled bumps in my armpit resemble the symptoms of this illness? Has anyone ever had this or know of someone who has?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a skin disease that affects areas bearing apocrine sweat glands and hair follicles; such as the underarms, groin and buttocks esp in women.

Apply warm compresses on the lumps and keep the area clean. Topical antiseptic treatment and topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment is very useful.If still the lumps persist then specific treatment like antibiotics,vit A supplements,corticosteroid injections,isotretinoin,antiandrogens and sometimes excision and drainage ,laser therapy and radiotherapy are found useful.I feel that you should consult a dermatologist and discuss these options with him.
Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing and if you have any additional queries.

[ShamSham]

I developed 1 painful red swollen bump under my left arm first.  A couple of days went by and it got worse and as I squeezed it puss came out.  The pain has subsided and the puss is no more but the bump is still there.  However a day later I developed 4 more under the other underarm with same symptoms.  These hurt so much I find it difficult to keep my arms down or drive.  I am afraid to go to the doctor, keep thinking they will go away by themselves.  My sister who is a surgical tech has advised me to go to the doctor, says its sounds like sabaceous (something like that) glands and only antibiotics will help or if I don't do anything now, surgery will have to happen later.  I am 39 years old, have never ever experienced anything like this.  It took me a while to even show or discuss this with my son and boyfriend.  I am so embarrassed.  I've been using the same deodarant (dove) for years, same razors so I don't understand how or why this is happening.  Does this sound like it could be Hidradenitis suppurativa?