Axillary hidrosadenitis due to Leishmania: Case report and literature review

Abstract

Abstract Background Hidradenitis is a disorder where abscesses appear after the infection of the apocrine sweat glands. It is located normally in the axillae, groin, perineal region, and the scalp. Clinical case A 37 year old male was referred by his GP to the General Surgery Department with axillary hidradenitis which had evolved over the years. The physical examination shows signs of hidradenitis in both axillae, with a noticeable suppurative hidradenitis in the right armpit. En bloc extirpation was performed to remove the whole affected area. The pathological examination revealed a cutaneous leishmaniasis. Subsequently, fucidin was administered topically, as well as local infiltrations of one millilitre of Glucantime™. Discussion Hidradenitis normally appears in intertriginous areas and its manifestation is accompanied by recurrent subcutaneous nodules. The incidence rate in females is three times higher than in males. The isolated Hidradenitis caused by Leishmania is a rare condition presented only in endemic areas or in immunocompromised patients, such as HIV-infected patients. Clinical manifestations can be different and the diagnosis can be confirmed through haematoxylin–eosin. The main pattern displays a disorganised granuloma without necrosis. Systemic or topical treatment can be applied. Immunotherapy treatment is the most common. Conclusions Hidradenitis caused by Leishmania in HIV-negative patients is a rare condition. Therefore it is important to perform a good histological diagnosis and to administer the right treatment.