Diagnostic Challenges Among Greek Patients With Hidradenitis Suppurativa

INTRODUCTION: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can progress to significant tunnels and scars that affect severely quality of life, especially if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. Average delay after initial presentation of HS symptoms can range from 3 to 10 years in adults. Factors associated with diagnostic delay include female sex, non-white race, and greater disease severity at diagnosis. Despite the impairment in QoL of patients with HS, there is a lack of evidence and clear understanding of diagnostic challenges and unmet needs in Greece. Therefore, patients’ insights are important to fill the gaps and get a holistic perspective of the disease.

OBJECTIVES: The present study was conducted to understand diagnostic challenges faced by patients and unmet needs in HS in Greece.

METHODS: The survey was conducted via a structured questionnaire and patients’ recruitment was implemented via physicians. All patients signed a Consent Form to participate in the survey.

RESULTS: Twelve patients with HS participated in survey. Patients state that on average, they have been diagnosed with HS for 10 years, with an average time reported from symptoms’ onset to diagnosis equal to 1-2 years. Dermatologist was the physician who recognized the symptoms in 75% of cases and on average, patients had visited three health professionals before diagnosis. More than half (58%) of pts were misdiagnosed. Males, younger patients, with severe HS, receiving biologic therapy, living in North Greece reported the higher rates of misdiagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS: Patients’ perspectives substantiated major diagnostic delays. It is crucial to disseminate up-to-date information to all health-care providers, to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment for HS patients. By addressing these challenges, we can improve the quality of life for individuals living with HS and reduce the burden of this chronic disease.