Controversies in Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Bridging Gaps in Science and Practice

Dear Colleagues,

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, debilitating inflammatory skin disorder marked by painful nodules, abscesses, and sinus tract formation. Despite growing awareness and recent advances, significant controversy persists regarding its underlying mechanisms, optimal treatment strategies, and classification as either a primarily infectious, inflammatory, genetic, or immune-driven disease.

This Special Issue aims to spotlight the most pressing and debated aspects of HS through point–counterpoint style contributions from leading experts across disciplines. Topics will explore key controversies including the following:

• Infection vs. Inflammation: Revisiting the microbiome’s vs. immune cell role in HS pathogenesis;
• Genetic vs. Sporadic Origins: Unpacking heritability and disease onset;
• Medical vs. Surgical Management: Defining the standard of care in complex HS;
• Innate vs. Adaptive Immunity: Interrogating immune dysregulation and therapeutic targets.

By fostering scientific dialogue across divergent viewpoints, this Special Issue seeks to stimulate research collaboration, inform clinical decision making, and guide the development of consensus in HS care.

Dr. Hadar Lev-Tov
Dr. Tammy González
Guest Editors

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