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The following is a summary of “Stigmatization and perceived health status in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa: an observational multicenter study in Europe,” published in the November 2024 issue of Dermatology by Marron et al.
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is linked to psychological challenges, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, with stigma related to physical appearance severely impacting the QoL.
Researchers conducted a retrospective study to analyze the association between stigmatization, depression, anxiety, and health- and disease-related factors among European patients with HS.
They assessed 22 dermatological outpatient clinics in 17 European countries and collected data on sociodemographic factors, general health indicators, disease-related variables, perceived stigmatization (PSQ), and mental health (PHQ-2, GAD-2).
The results showed that 2.6% of 5,487 individuals had HS, and data from 135 patients (70.1% women, mean age 38.2 years) were analyzed. Significant stigmatization levels were observed in the sample. The linear regression models revealed associations between stigmatization and HS duration, itch, and depression. The “confused/staring behavior” scale was linked to depression, while the “absence of friendly behavior” scale was inversely associated with general health status, and the “hostile behavior” scale was positively linked to depression.
They concluded the patients with HS experienced stigmatization associated with disease duration, itchiness, and depression, highlighting comprehensive management, psychosocial screening, and access to psychological support for coping with internal distress and external reactions.
Source:onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ijd.17569
