32834 Patient and dermatologist perspectives on unmet needs in hidradenitis suppurativa

Abstract

Objective: To report patient journey and disease management of HS from the perspectives of US dermatologists and patients. Methods: Dermatologists with expertise in HS, general dermatologists, and patients with HS participated in this prospective web-based survey study. Dermatologists completed a 33-question survey focused on disease awareness, referral practices, and treatment patterns. Patients completed a 46-question survey that included demographics, disease characteristics, journey to care, treatment history, and HS awareness. Results: Overall, 47 patients and 30 dermatologists (6 of whom were HS experts) participated in this study. The majority of patients (73%) experienced first HS symptoms before the age of 20 years, and 47% of patients reported >10 years from symptom onset to HS diagnosis. Dermatologists and patients both reported challenges with the referral process, with 47% of referred patients reporting the process as “very difficult.” Patients reported they were most frequently (51%) diagnosed by a dermatologist. Before seeking medical help, 70% of patients tried nonprescription therapies for their symptoms. Topical therapy and antibiotics were the most commonly prescribed first-line treatment for mild to moderate HS, and biologics were for severe HS. Most patients (63%) reported that biologic treatment improved their condition, and 41% of patients reported that time to initiate a biologic was >2 years from diagnosis. Additionally, patients and dermatologists both reported high levels of psychological burden experienced by patients. Conclusion: Increased awareness of HS is necessary to address unmet needs, including reducing diagnosis delays and optimizing treatment strategies, to ensure comprehensive care and improved outcomes.