Pediatric Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Study Links skin Condition to Obesity, Depression

A comprehensive analysis of over 17,000 pediatric patients reveals a strong association between hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory skin condition, and several comorbidities, including obesity, depression, and anxiety.The study, published in JAMA Dermatology, underscores the need for early detection and comprehensive clinical guidelines for managing HS in children and adolescents.

Comorbidities Linked to Pediatric HS

Hidradenitis suppurativa, sometimes referred to as inverse acne, is a long-term skin condition characterized by painful lumps under the skin, ofen in areas were skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, and buttocks. These lumps can heal slowly, reappear, and lead to tunnels and scarring. A significant challenge in pediatric HS is its impact on development during late childhood and adolescence, compounded by pain, frequent pus formation, and odor.

The research highlights that pediatric HS is frequently associated with other chronic health issues. For example,obesity,hyperlipidemia,and anxiety can affect nearly 93% of young patients with HS. Furthermore, studies suggest a link between HS and gut microbiome dysregulation, perhaps influencing mental health through the gut-brain axis.

Did You Know? The prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents in the United States was 19.7% between 2017-March 2020, according to the CDC. CDC

Study Details and Findings

The systematic review and meta-analysis included 19 observational studies encompassing 17,267 pediatric patients with HS and 8,259,944 controls. The average age of participants ranged from 12 to 17 years, with a majority being female (76.7%).

Obesity emerged as a highly prevalent comorbidity, affecting between 6% and 59% (combined proportion: 37%) of pediatric HS patients. While one study noted racial differences in obesity prevalence, the overall conclusion pointed to a significant association between HS and increased obesity risk in this population.

All studies indicated a higher incidence or prevalence of depression among HS patients compared to control groups, suggesting a probable link between HS and depression in pediatric patients. Anxiety (ranging from 1.4% to 33.6%) and depression (ranging from 2.7% to 13.7%) were the most commonly observed psychiatric comorbidities. Acne vulgaris was the most frequent dermatological condition in this patient group (combined proportion: 43%).

Pro Tip: Early intervention and mental health support are crucial for pediatric HS patients due to the high prevalence of anxiety and depression.

Implications for Treatment and Management

Currently, there are no specific treatment guidelines for pediatric HS, and management strategies are largely based on adult protocols.The study authors emphasize the importance of early detection of obesity, diabetes, mental health issues, and Down syndrome in affected children. They advocate for comprehensive clinical guidelines and multidisciplinary teams to address the complex needs of this patient population.

The researchers suggest the need for an early detection of obesity, diabetes, mental health problems and Down syndrome in those affected patients. “our findings highlight the need for comprehensive clinical guidelines for the detection of comorbidity in this population and emphasize the participation of multidisciplinary teams to achieve it,” the authors of the study concluded.

Key Comorbidities in Pediatric HS Patients

What are the long-term effects of HS on children’s mental health?

How can parents and caregivers best support children with HS?

Disclaimer: This article provides general data and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.

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