Table 1.

Diagnostic criteria for HS as defined by the European S1 guideline for the treatment of HS/acne inversa.⁶ The presence of primary positive diagnostic criteria (either history or signs) are required and the presence of secondary positive diagnostic criteria are supportive of the diagnosis of HS.

Primary positive diagnostic criteria:
• History: More than two recurrent, painful or suppurating lesions over a period of 6 months • Signs: Involvement of axilla, genitofemoral area, perineum, gluteal area and inframammary area of women. Presence of nodules, sinus tracts, abscesses, scarring.
Secondary positive diagnostic criteria:
• History: A family history of HS • Microbiology: A negative swab or presence of normal skin microbiota may be indicative of HS.

HS, hidradenitis suppurativa.