Blocked, infected sweat glands (hidradenitis suppurativa)

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Blocked, infected sweat glands (hidradenitis suppurativa)

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a blockage of the sweat glands, usually in the armpits, and rarely, on the buttocks or groin or under the breasts. Heat, sweat, or incomplete gland development may block sweat glands, forcing sweat and bacteria into the tissue around it, which then becomes infected.

This condition is seen most often in:

Black females.
People who are overweight.
People who spend time in a hot and moist environment.

Symptoms

Hidradenitis suppurativa usually occurs as multiple lumps that:

Are firm, tender, and dome-shaped.
Vary in size from 1 cm to 3 cm (occasionally larger).
May open and drain pus.

This condition is treated with medication to reduce inflammation and fight infection. However, this condition is difficult to treat, and if the infection is severe or recurs, surgery may be needed to remove the lumps and cure the infection.

Credits

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Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last Updated	May 8, 2007

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Last updated:	May 08, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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