Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic cutaneous disorder affecting intertriginous regions, exhibits complex etiology. While the precise origins remain elusive, investigations highlight smoking as a pivotal risk factor. A 2019 literature review underscores nicotine’s role in fostering Staphylococcus aureus proliferation, particularly in intertriginous locales. Moreover, it elucidates nicotine’s impact on inflammation regulators and dermal layers, accentuating HS development.
A discerning 2021 meta-analysis reveals a fourfold higher smoking incidence among HS-afflicted individuals compared to controls. Echoing this, a 2018 retrospective cohort analysis accentuates a twofold surge in HS incidence among tobacco users. Further scrutiny in 2018 establishes smoking’s correlative augmentation of HS severity, extending to lesion-affected anatomical breadth. Intriguingly, a 2016 study delineates a treatment response disjunction, with non-smokers exhibiting superior outcomes.
In summation, the nexus between smoking and HS transcends mere association, delving into molecular intricacies and therapeutic ramifications. These revelations implore both clinical and public health attention to mitigate HS burden through targeted smoking cessation initiatives.
