Hydradenitis in the groin. How to treat the "bitch udder" disease, what to do at home Hydradenitis in the groin in women treatment

Which name is more popular? Probably the second, it reflects the external similarity of the resulting abscesses with the nipples of a nursing dog.

What causes this disease, is it contagious and how to treat it?

The medical term "hydradenitis" means purulent inflammation of the apocrine sweat glands and is a subspecies.

Apocrine glands, unlike eccrine glands, are not located throughout the body, they have a specific localization.

The sweat that they secrete is thicker than usual, has a specific odor, and its reaction is neutral or alkaline. Such an environment is not afraid of pathogens, so the "bitch's udder" develops precisely in the apocrine glands.

Hydradenitis is caused by bacteria, more often staphylococci, a much smaller percentage of the disease is associated with exposure to streptococci and rods.

Harmful microorganisms can enter the sweat glands through microtraumas of the skin, through the lymphatic tract. Another implementation option is through the mouth of the hair follicle.

Purulent abscesses, mainly under the armpits, are shaped like the nipples of a dog that feeds offspring. Hence the colorful name of the disease among the people.

In children before the onset of puberty, hydradenitis does not occur, due to the fact that the function of the sweat glands is not sufficiently developed. The disease can affect adolescents, and is often diagnosed in women.

But for people of mature age, in whom the activity of the apocrine glands fades, this disease is no longer threatened.

The inflammatory process of the ducts of the sweat glands is also observed during hormonal surges in the body - during menopause, in pregnant women.

Hidradenitis has its own ICD-10 code- in the International Classification of Diseases, "bitch's udder" is listed under the number L 73.2.

Hidradenitis should be differentiated from furunculosis. With some similar symptoms, the difference is that with the disease "bitch's udder" there is no necrotic rod, which is separated during the opening of boils.

Pathogenic microorganisms live on the skin of a person, but provoke the disease only under certain conditions.

One of the main causes of hidradenitis is the weakening of the immune system, when the body is not able to withstand the harmful effects of bacteria.

Why the protective properties of the body are reduced:

• as a result of chronic diseases, as well as against the background of infectious pathologies, when hydradenitis manifests itself as a secondary infection;
• due to operations and injuries;
• due to excessive stress (both physical and emotional);
• with frequent stress, insomnia - the psychosomatics of the disease is such that constant experiences and negativity provoke the development of pathology;
• as a result of autoimmune diseases;
• due to diseases associated with metabolic disorders;
• due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty and menopause.

There are a number of other factors that can contribute to the disease hidradenitis:

We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the opinion of the doctor about the causes and causative agents of hydradenitis in the following video:

Localization of hidradenitis: under the arm, in the groin, etc.

"Bitch udder" is localized in places of accumulation of apocrine glands. They are most common in the armpits, so axillary hidradenitis is the most common disease.

In addition, these parts of the body are constantly exposed to negative effects - this is traumatic depilation, and friction with tight clothing, and inappropriate deodorants.

Some simply neglect the elementary hygiene of places that are characterized by increased sweating.

Where else is localized hidradenitis:

• in the groin area;
• in the perineum, around the anus;
• in men - on the scrotum;
• in women - on the labia;
• in the folds under the breast;
• on the mammary gland - in the area of ​​pigmentation around the nipples;
• rarely hydradenitis appears in the scalp.

So that the infection does not spread throughout the body, when a single focus appears, for example, a bump on the pubis, you should immediately begin antiseptic treatment of this place.

Symptoms

More often hydradenitis is unilateral, for example, the armpit on the left, inflammation on both sides at once is very rare.

The initial stage of the "bitch's udder" is the appearance under the skin of one, and more often several nodules of a dense structure, the size of a pea.

Gradually, painful seals reach a diameter of 1.5 - 2 cm, they protrude above the surface of the skin, becoming like a dog's udder.

The surrounding skin reddens, itches, then swelling occurs, the nodes merge, forming an area of ​​​​a large inflamed cyanotic-burgundy infiltrate.

These characteristic symptoms are accompanied by signs of general malaise:

When a solid node gradually becomes soft, then when pressing on the wall of the cavity, oscillations are formed - fluctuation. This serves as a sign by which it is possible to distinguish a "bitch udder" from a boil.

After the maturation of the infiltrate, it is opened, in which purulent contents come out. Then a scar is formed in this place.

The process can take from 10 days to a month - the fact is that while some abscesses heal, others appear.

After the release of pus, the patient usually feels better. During this period, it is important to prevent contents with a large number of staphylococci from entering neighboring areas.

Otherwise, the involvement of new sweat glands in the process threatens with repeated hydradenitis. The disease can take a chronic relapsing form.

About the types and symptoms of hydradenitis, this video:

Types and forms

The generally accepted classification of hydradenitis is based on its various manifestations.

By localization, the "bitch udder" is divided into one-sided (more common) and two-sided.

Also, the disease at the place of occurrence is axillary, inguinal, located in the anus, scrotum, labia, navel, mammary glands.

There are several stages of the course of the disease:

1. Initial - when the blockage of the sweat gland has just occurred. Accompanied by swelling, redness of the skin, itching, pain.
2. Medium - the growth of inflamed nodes and increased pain.
3. Severe - the formation of purulent abscesses with an admixture of blood.

Depending on the nature of the development of the pathology, 2 types of hydradenitis are distinguished: acute purulent and chronic.

The reason for the development of this form of the disease is the blockage of the apocrine glands, mainly due to poor hygiene of the body.

It is important to notice the formation of a bump in time, which quickly becomes inflamed and turns into a purulent abscess.

The disease is accompanied by typical symptoms - fever, weakness, pain in the places where abscesses form.

Untimely treatment of pathology is dangerous by intoxication of the body and complications in the form of abscesses and phlegmon.

recurrent

The chronic form of hidradenitis is also called recurrent. The inflammatory process lasts for a long time, manifesting itself at certain intervals.

Extensive inflammation of the sweat glands is considered the most complex form of hidradenitis. For successful treatment, it is necessary to find out the causes of a long pathological process.

The disease is dangerous by an increase in the area of ​​inflamed apocrine glands and the formation of abscesses.

An adequate complex treatment with the use of antibiotics is required, it is imperative to exclude alcohol and diet, careful personal hygiene.

The suppurative form of hidradenitis is also called inverse acne. It is more common in adolescents during puberty.

The peculiarity of the disease is that various forms of acne are combined with an inflammatory process in the sweat glands.

Suppurative hydradenitis of the armpit or other area of ​​the skin appears due to blockage and rupture of the hair follicle.

The disease is characterized by the formation of an inflammatory process that affects the sweat glands.

Pathology can be localized in the groin, perineum, armpits, less often on the face. Factors conducive to the development of the disease are excessive sweating, obesity, uncomfortable clothing.

Which doctor should I contact?

At the very beginning of the onset of the disease, adequate treatment can be prescribed by a dermatologist.

Conservative therapy is not always effective, so you may need to seek help from a surgeon.

Hidradenitis in the stage of suppuration is treated with surgery. The doctor opens the abscess and puts a drain to remove the contents of the cavity.

If signs of hidradenitis are found in children, you should contact your pediatrician. The pediatrician will decide what treatment to prescribe and to which specialist to refer the child for consultation and follow-up therapy.

Symptoms of hidradenitis in pregnant women - a reason to visit a gynecologist, which will determine the treatment regimen and the need to contact the surgeon for surgical intervention.

Especially undesirable is the development of "bitch's udder" during lactation in nursing mothers. The disease causes discomfort and interferes with the normal feeding of babies.

In the case of a chronic form of the disease, it may be necessary consultation with an immunologist, nutritionist, endocrinologist.

The correct diagnosis is important in order to start the appropriate treatment of the patient in time and prevent the development of complications.

Hidradenitis should be differentiated from diseases with similar symptoms - phlegmon, furunculosis, skin tuberculosis, sebaceous cysts, atheroma, lymphadenitis.

The task of the doctor is to question the patient. It is important to find out:

On examination, the doctor pays attention to the presence of swelling, changes in skin color, the shape of seals, skin fluctuation.

Often a blood test is required- an increase in ESR and leukocytes, a decrease in the number of erythrocytes indicates the presence of an inflammatory process.

Bacteriological research usually prescribed for recurrent form of hidradenitis.

A test sample is taken from the abscess to determine the microorganism that caused the disease and its sensitivity to antibiotics.

How to treat bitch udders in men and women

There are two ways to get rid of the "bitch udder" - conservative and operational.

Treatment without surgical intervention is successful only in the first 3 days from the moment the seal forms.

The doctor prescribes the means of external and oral use. Usually patients have to take antibiotics:

Antibiotics can effectively fight pathogenic bacteria. They can be taken as tablets or by injection.

Medication is combined with external therapy. Local preparations are quickly absorbed and begin to act immediately after application.

For the treatment of affected areas use:

• Ichthyol ointment and Vishnevsky ointment are used to speed up the release of purulent contents;
• Ilon - this ointment helps to thin the pus and bring it out, also has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect;
• Levomekol - an antiseptic with antimicrobial and wound healing effects is applied to the area of ​​​​the abscess after it has opened;
• lotions with a solution of the antibiotic Clindamycin are applied to the wound;
• the affected area must be smeared with brilliant green, iodine, Synthomycin ointment, apply a swab soaked in diluted Dimexide to kill bacteria;
• apply dressings soaked in calendula tincture, Chlorophyllipt (alcohol solution);
• the skin surrounding the abscess should be wiped with alcohol solutions (salicylic or boric acid) to destroy pathogenic microorganisms.

Additional therapies help to cure hidradenitis - medication and physiotherapy:

It is not always possible to successfully treat the "bitch's udder" at home. Often it is necessary to remove the abscess surgically. If the abscess is single, then the surgical intervention is performed under local anesthesia.

After opening hidradenitis, the wound is treated and drainage is installed to remove fluid. The surgeon prescribes postoperative treatment, which usually takes about a week.

One operation is not enough to remove hidradenitis, consisting of multiple micro-abscesses. The operation is carried out in stages:

Such an operation is indicated for repeated relapses of hidradenitis, when other methods of treatment do not work.

During the recovery period, various procedures are prescribed - laser therapy, infrared irradiation, magnetotherapy, exposure to ultrasound, photo-, chemotherapy.

Opinion of a specialist on the surgical method of treating the disease:

It is unlikely that hydradenitis can be cured with folk remedies alone. But in complex therapy with medications, such treatment is quite acceptable.

Onions, cabbage and aloe are the most popular ingredients in folk recipes. Such medicines are easy to prepare at home:

How to cure illness in children

Hydradenitis in children develops in adolescence, when the process of puberty occurs with a change in hormonal levels.

Provoking factors are also long-term infectious diseases, excessive sweating, skin diaper rash, and poor personal hygiene.

You can not self-medicate, exposing children to the risk of severe hydradenitis and possible complications.

The teenager needs to be shown to the pediatrician, who will decide on the need for further action:

• if the process is at the very beginning and there are no signs of general malaise, local therapy can help. The patient is prescribed antibiotics and external agents;
• perhaps the doctor will refer the child to a surgeon to remove abscesses and further rehabilitation therapy.

During the recovery period, the patient needs rest, rest, a balanced diet, taking vitamins. If necessary, the teenager is prescribed physiotherapy procedures.

In general, the treatment regimen is similar to that used in adults. But the use of drugs according to the age of the child and in the appropriate dosage is required.

If there are frequent recurrences of hidradenitis, the teenager should undergo a complete examination to identify the causes of such a pathology - these may be chronic diseases or metabolic disorders in the body.

The disease is fraught with complications as a result of the generalization of the inflammatory process, that is, its spread beyond the sweat glands to the surrounding tissues. As a result, foci of the disease appear throughout the body.

Complications of hydradenitis include:

In order to prevent the occurrence of purulent inflammation of the sweat glands, it is necessary first of all observe personal hygiene and take care of strengthening immunity.

And since chronic infections serve as risk factors that can provoke the development of hidradenitis, it is necessary to eliminate the foci of such diseases - pharyngitis, otitis, herpes, tuberculosis, hepatitis.

In order not to get hidradenitis, it is important to follow the rules of personal hygiene:

Hidradenitis is a disease in which the sweat glands become inflamed. Pathology is mainly localized in the axillary and inguinal regions. This distribution is due to the fact that in these areas there are a large number of hair follicles and sweat glands. Men and women are equally affected by the disease. Treatment at the initial stage of development of hidradenitis involves the use of drugs.

Features of the disease

The sweat glands secrete a secret through thin ducts, one part of which is connected to the hair follicles. When this channel is blocked, the fluid gradually accumulates in it, creating a beneficial microflora for the development of pathogenic microorganisms. The latter cause inflammation of the hair follicles.

Hidradenitis occurs in women aged 13-50 years (average). This frequency of distribution is due to the peculiarities of the functioning of the sweat glands. In women who are not included in the specified age range, the production of sex hormones is reduced. Because of this, the productivity of the sweat glands decreases.

The focus of inflammation in hydradenitis occurs:

• in perineum;
• near anal holes;
• on the genital lips.

The predisposition to the development of hidradenitis is not due to a hereditary factor. In summer, the frequency of the spread of pathology increases.

The disease mainly develops against the background of infection of the body with a staphylococcal infection. Depending on the morphological features, hydradenitis is divided into the following types:

1. Purulent. It occurs due to blockage of the sebaceous and sweat glands. More often, a purulent-type pathology is detected in people who are not engaged in genital hygiene. With this form of the disease, the patient experiences pain, itching and other signs of hidradenitis. Without treatment, pathology gives serious complications.
2. Inguinal. Among the most common causes of this type of hidradenitis are skin injuries that occur during shaving of the inguinal zone. Through open wounds, infection with staphylococcus occurs, which leads to the formation of abscesses in the affected area.
3. Recurrent. It is characterized by a long course, which is accompanied by the release of pus from the site of localization of foci of inflammation. The recurrent type of hidradenitis is prone to spread to healthy tissues. This form of pathology in rare cases is complicated by sepsis.

Timely and competently carried out treatment of the disease does not exclude the possibility of a relapse in the future. To prevent the development of hidradenitis, it is necessary to regularly take preventive measures.

Reasons for development

More often, the development of hidradenitis occurs against the background of infection of the body with staphylococci. Pathogenic bacteria enter through open wounds resulting from inaccurate shaving of the groin area, or due to poor hygiene. Rarely, infection occurs with streptococci.

For the development of hidradenitis, only infection with pathogenic microflora is not enough. The activation of bacteria, which leads to the occurrence of an inflammatory process, occurs against the background of:

• hormonal changes caused by menopause, pregnancy, endocrine pathologies;
• hyperhidrosis(active sweating);
• violations exchange substances;
• weakening immunity;
• abnormal structure sweat glands;
• inadequate hygiene groin and organs of the reproductive system.

Among the predisposing factors is also wearing synthetic underwear that fits snugly to the body. In addition, the likelihood of developing hidradenitis increases with skin pathologies: eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and others.

Symptoms

The nature and intensity of the clinical picture with hidradenitis varies depending on the stage of development of the pathological process. In the first few days, small nodules with a dense structure form in a woman's groin. Upon contact with them, the patient experiences pain. When pressed on them, the nodes begin to move.

In the second stage, they increase in size and fuse with the skin. The epidermis in the affected area turns red, and the intensity of pain increases. If there are several such nodules nearby, then they grow together.

As a result, a large focus is formed in which a purulent process occurs. With this development of the pathological process, the pain does not subside, even if the woman is in a motionless position.

At the last stage of development, abscesses open up. The affected area is reduced. The fluid flowing from the abscesses has a thick structure. At the site of localization of the nodules, as healing proceeds, healthy tissue is replaced by connective tissue. As a result, scars form.

The following phenomena are added to these symptoms, depending on the stage of development of the pathological process:

• high temperature body;
• head pain;
• general malaise;
• intolerable itching.

If hydradenitis is localized on the labia of a woman, then the pathological process develops faster. Local tissue changes color and swells.

Possible Complications

Chronization of the pathological process is one of the most common complications of hidradenitis. With this form of the disease, lesions are often at different stages of development.

As hidradenitis develops, the inflammatory process captures the subcutaneous tissue. This leads to the formation of abscesses and the development of phlegmon. If lymph nodes are located near the affected area, then lymphadenitis occurs against the background of the spread of the inflammatory process.

Also, hydradenitis gives the following complications:

• education fistula, which lie to the organs of the urinary system or rectum;
• purulent arthritis;
• inflammation organs of the reproductive system.

In severe cases, the purulent process contributes to the occurrence of sepsis, which leads to death.

Diagnostic methods

Hidradenitis is characterized by specific symptoms, so the diagnosis is made by external examination of the affected area. The doctor also takes additional measures to differentiate this pathology from others:

• furunculosis;
• collicative tuberculosis;
• disease Crown;
• actinomycosis;
• epidermal cysts and so on.

The course of these diseases affects the sweat glands and is accompanied by the development of an inflammatory process.

Unlike hidradenitis, with furunculosis, there is a rod in the abscesses. With collicative tuberculosis, the lymph nodes become inflamed at the initial stages of the development of the pathology, but the pain syndrome is not diagnosed.

Along the way, the doctor conducts a blood test to assess the rate of leukocyte and leukocyte sedimentation. This study shows the presence or absence of an inflammatory process in the body.

Features of treatment

The tactics of treatment for hidradenitis is determined by the severity of the course and the stage of development of the pathology. At the initial stage, when the disease is not accompanied by the appearance of abscesses, therapeutic intervention is indicated.

A conservative approach involves the use of a group of medications. The choice in favor of a particular drug is determined by the type of pathogenic microflora that provoked the development of the pathological process. To suppress the activity of bacteria are used:

• antibiotics tetracycline and cephalosporin series;
• nitrofurans;
• sulfonamides;
• bactericidal ointments such as Chlorhexidine, Clindamycin;
• oral contraceptives;
• alcoholic solution for treating the affected area.

If antibiotic therapy fails to suppress the inflammatory process, antibiotics are replaced with corticosteroids. More often in the treatment of hidradenitis, drugs based on prednisone are used. Long-term use of hormonal drugs is contraindicated due to the fact that they are addictive.

In addition to these drugs, vitamin complexes and immunostimulants are used. They strengthen the immune system, thereby speeding up the healing process.

In addition to drug therapy, at the initial stage of the development of pathology, the following are prescribed:

• autohemotherapy;
• ultrasonic and ultraviolet irradiation of the affected area;
• supply to the area of ​​localization of inflammation of dry heat.

At the initial stage of development of hidradenitis, its treatment is also carried out using dry heat. A hot terry towel (heated with an iron) must be applied to the affected area and wait 15 minutes. The procedure is repeated at least three times a day.

In the presence of abscesses in the groin, surgical intervention is indicated. During the operation, the doctor opens the abscess and drains the affected area, simultaneously treating it with antiseptic compounds. After the procedure, a bactericidal patch is applied to the wound. It will prevent the spread of pus and infection of healthy tissues.

It is important to note that hot baths should not be taken during the treatment of the disease. Such exposure contributes to the rapid spread of infection.

Often, both methods are used in the treatment of hidradenitis: antibiotic therapy is combined with surgical intervention. This approach provides a quick recovery of the body and reduces the likelihood of re-infection with the further spread of the inflammatory process.

Prevention measures

It will not be possible to completely exclude the possibility of developing hidradenitis in the groin in women. This is due to the fact that in this zone there is a large concentration of sweat glands and hair follicles.

It is possible to prevent the occurrence of pathology by following the recommendations:

• refusal to wear tight underwear underwear, made of synthetic fabric;
• rejection of harmful habits;
• mode adjustment food and daily diet
• regular hygiene inguinal zone;
• gentle removal hair from the intimate area.

If the abscess has opened or a surgical intervention has been previously performed on the affected area, it is necessary to wear a bactericidal patch on the wound during the entire rehabilitation period. It will prevent re-infection of the body. Along the way, it is recommended to treat the affected area with an antiseptic solution twice a day.

Hydradenitis in the groin in women develops against the background of infection of the body with pathogenic microflora (mainly staphylococcus aureus). The disease is accompanied by an inflammatory process. Abscesses often form in the affected area, which cause severe pain.

Hidradenitis with timely treatment does not pose a danger to the woman's body.

In advanced cases, the purulent form of the pathology is complicated by phlegmon and sepsis, which leads to death. Treatment of hidradenitis is carried out by the use of antibacterial drugs or surgery.

Education: 2016 - graduated from Moscow State Medical University named after A.I. Evdokimov with a degree in General Medicine. 2016 - Member of the Moscow Scientific Society of Dermatovenerologists and Cosmetologists. A.I. Pospelov. 2017 - RUDN University, advanced training under the program of additional education in the specialty "Trichology. Diagnosis and treatment of hair diseases” Department of V.P. Tkachev. 2018 - graduated from residency in the specialty "Dermatovenereology" at the Department of Dermatovenereology of the MONIKI named after M.F. Vladimirsky. 2018 - "ENDOCRINOLOGY OF REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH "MANAGE AGE: ENDOCRINOLOGY OF EXTERNAL AND INNER BEAUTY", RUDN University. 2018 - advanced training in cosmetology at the Central State Medical Academy under the Administration of the President of the Russian Federation. Experience: 3 years. Place of work: REAL CLINIC.

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Hidradenitis is a purulent inflammation of the apocrine sweat glands, which is caused by the penetration of a staphylococcal infection along the path of the hair follicle (see photo).

Hydradenitis can be observed in the armpits, around the anus, on the scrotum, near the labia and navel, i.e. wherever there is hair.

Hydradenitis - what is it?

In the people, hydradenitis is called "bitch's udder" for its resemblance to the chest of a dog. In children and the elderly, this disease is not observed. This is due to the fact that the apocrine glands begin to function actively only after the puberty period, and by the age of 50-55 their activity is declining.

Women suffer from the appearance of hydradenitis more often than men. Especially the risk increases during the peak of puberty and menopause against the background of frequent shaving of the armpits.

It is quite simple to determine purulent hidradenitis, because it has several characteristic features. In diameter, the inflammation exceeds 1.5 cm, visually resembles a boil.

A feature of hidradenitis is the absence of a necrotic rod. The pathological focus protrudes noticeably above the surface of the skin, and the entire convex surface is painted bright red. There is swelling and pain around the inflamed area.

Hydradenitis under the armpit and in the inguinal zone, photo

Purulent inflammation of the apocrine sweat glands in 98% of cases is caused by a bacterium such as Staphylococcus aureus. Minor damage is enough to get the pathogen under the skin. It is possible to injure the epidermis during shaving, depilation, epilation.

• The use of deodorants that irritate and dry out the skin, thereby contributing to the appearance of microcracks, has a detrimental effect.

Hydradenitis under the arm

The risk of infecting the apocrine gland increases in people who suffer from excessive sweating. Wet substance, which is constantly on the skin, reduces its barrier function. Pathogenic microflora easily enters the lymphatic ducts or the mouth of the hair follicle, and an inflammatory process develops.

Insufficient hygiene also provokes hydradenitis under the arm. The reasons may lie in disorders of the endocrine glands: diabetes, obesity, hormonal imbalance.

The catalyst for the appearance of hydradenitis is a decrease in immunity and a violation of the acidity of sweat - alkalization.

Hydradenitis in the groin

Hydradenitis in the groin occurs less frequently, but in women and men of reproductive age it still happens. This is due to non-compliance with hygiene rules during intercourse.

Many people immediately fear that this is a sexually transmitted disease. But if shaving or epilation was carried out immediately before close contact, most likely, we are talking about hydradenitis.

The inflammatory process can go to the armpits and genitals, if the body already has purulent foci. In this case, hydradenitis will have a slightly different nature. For this reason, ulcers in any area cannot be brought to a chronic state.

Symptoms of hydradenitis - features

At the stage of infiltration (initial development), you can notice the appearance of small nodules, dense to the touch. Hydradenitis under the arm or in the groin, which is out of sight, will give itself out with unpleasant symptoms: itching, soreness when pressed.

• Immediately after the appearance of the nodule, it will rapidly increase in size and acquire a pear-shaped shape. In size, the inflammatory focus reaches 1.5 - 3 cm.

The hydradenitis node is tightly soldered to the skin, which becomes red-violet in the convex region. As inflammation develops, the nodules merge with each other. Painful sensations appear not only when touched, but also at rest.

The process of maturation of hydradenitis is necessarily accompanied by:

1. General malaise;
2. Rapid fatigue;
3. Painful itchy sensations around the inflammation;
4. An increase in body temperature.

Hydradenitis in the groin, the symptoms of which are already unpleasant, will cause severe pain when walking. Such manifestations knock a person out of the daily schedule for several days, until the abscess matures completely.

After maturation, the central zone of the node becomes soft. After 1-2 days, hidradenitis may open spontaneously. Quite a lot of purulent masses with a small amount of blood substances will stand out from the inflamed area.

Blood enters the node due to damage to the vessels during its rapid growth. Bleeding with hydradenitis never happens - it is always the release of blood in a small amount.

After the release of pus, a person feels relieved: the temperature drops and strength returns. The knot disappears, but an ulcer appears in its place. After a few days, it tightens, and a scar appears on the skin.

• Often the scar will be sunken in for a while. Then, as new connective tissue is formed, the scar area is leveled.

Hidradenitis can recur and transform into a chronic disease. Spontaneous opening of the node may not occur at all. In this case, the patient's condition will worsen, and he will need urgent medical care in the form of emergency surgical intervention.

Hidradenitis treatment - drugs and antibiotics

The success of therapy largely depends on the stage at which the patient detects a node in the inguinal zone or hidradenitis under the arm. Treatment of hidradenitis must begin from the moment of the first seals under the skin. For the convenience of manipulation in the affected area, hair is cut off (it is forbidden to shave, because this can aggravate the course of the purulent process).

The node and its surrounding area are treated with an antiseptic, which will reduce pain (in this case, it is necessary to take into account the possibility of an allergy to a particular substance):

• Iodine 5%;
• Salicylic acid 2%;
• Brilliant green 3%;
• Ethyl alcohol 96%.

The larger the affected area, the more the node will hurt. To relieve discomfort, an abscess larger than 2 cm is cut off with 1% novocaine with the addition of an injectable vasoconstrictor. The latter reduces the diameter of the vessel and thereby prolongs the action of the anesthetic.

In the treatment of hidradenitis, fatty-based ointments and gels are prohibited - they can provoke the spread of suppuration. For the same reason, the use of compresses is prohibited, only dry heat is allowed. The best option is the imposition of alcohol drying bandages.

Alcohol-free warming can be done:

• Iron-heated natural cloth (application method);
• The use of a blue lamp for 5-7 minutes (the distance to the node is at least 20 cm);
• Ultraviolet radiation (open sun) no more than 30 minutes.

When is surgery indicated?

If hidradenitis does not open on its own, surgical intervention is necessary. Most likely, it will not be possible to manage with local puncture (piercing) and drainage, because there are multiple foci of suppuration.

• The opening of hidradenitis is performed by a complete incision. First, the pus is removed, and then the inflamed subcutaneous fatty tissue is cut out.

The wound after surgery is quite voluminous. It is strictly forbidden to close it with bandages - constant treatments with antiseptic agents are necessary, as well as air access (for better regeneration). After the inflammation goes away, granulation of the wound will occur.

After the granulation stage, a second operation is necessary if the tissue defect is very large. During it, the subcutaneous adipose tissue and the skin itself are removed. Next, the patient needs autodermoplasty - moving tissue sections of the operated person to hide cosmetic defects.

Otherwise, a rough scar will remain on the skin. Hydradenitis in the groin is especially unpleasant - treatment in women and men by the radical method should be done with extreme caution. Such localization can affect the health of the reproductive organs if there is a deep spread of the pathological process.

After surgery physiotherapy may be prescribed:

• Laser;
• magnetic therapy;
• Localized UV therapy;
• Infrared radiation;
• ultrasound therapy;
• Electrophoresis with unithiol, dianin, codeine;
• X-ray exposure - removes the sweat glands, therefore it is used only in case of constant recurrence of inflammation.

Some of these procedures can be prescribed during the period of infiltration. In some cases, they help to avoid surgery.

The patient must follow a diet aimed at restoring the proper functioning of the glands of the body. At the same time, the function of such a diet is to strengthen the immune barrier. Any sweets, alcohol, spicy food and seasonings, strong coffee are prohibited. At the same time, nuts (walnuts and almonds), citrus fruits, apples, carrots, red and black berries, dried fruits, honey should appear on the table.

Ginseng, aloe, wild rose, plantain have healing properties that restore immunity. Decoctions of them must be drunk instead of tea or added to tea leaves.

Antibiotics

Treatment of hidradenitis should be carried out not only outside, but also inside the body. Antibiotics (erythromycin, doxycycline) can significantly improve the patient's condition. These drugs can be used at all stages of treatment. Antiseptic agents are most effective at initial suppuration (before relapses).

If a relapse occurs, an immunogram is needed (especially for multiple relapses). According to the study, immunostimulants are prescribed.

• The task of therapy is to completely destroy staphylococcal bacteria. They fight the pathogen by injection: gamma globulin, the vaccine against Staphylococcus aureus.

In parallel with the treatment of the hydradenitis node, inflammation is prevented in other apocrine sweat glands. A staphylococcal infection can spread to any part of the body, but the patient can protect the surrounding glands.

It is necessary to treat with an antiseptic solution (brilliant greens, iodine, ethyl and boric alcohol) not only the node itself, but also the space around. The area in need of treatment is limited to "intimate areas": armpits, perineum, navel. In other locations, the appearance of hydradenitis is almost impossible.

Before taking a shower, bath or other water procedures, a bandage must be applied to hydradenitis. The patch will prevent the spread of infection throughout the body.

Complications of hidradenitis

Hidradenitis should in no case be confused with a classic pimple, abscess or boil. Untimely or incompetent treatment can seriously affect the patient's health.

Axillary hidradenitis transforms into a large abscess if surgery or drainage was not performed correctly. The culprit is inflamed subcutaneous fat. An abscess affects the soft tissues and makes treatment very difficult.

Hidradenitis can become putrefactive phlegmon if surgery is not performed in two stages. The second autopsy is necessary, because even at the stage of an ulcerative wound, the node recurs.

Another risk is the development of chronic lymphadenitis. This complication is possible if the staphylococcal bacterium entered the body through the lymphatic channel. Refusal to treat hidradenitis threatens the patient with sepsis and endangers his life.

Hydradenitis: which doctor should I contact?

Any skin diseases lead a person to a dermatologist, it is this doctor who should conduct an initial examination. Further, the patient can be referred to doctors who treat the cause of inflammation:

• Immunologist;
• Endocrinologist;
• Infectionist.

In addition, during the treatment process, you will need the help of a nutritionist or an allergist.

Hydradenitis in the groin in women occurs as often as in the armpit. The disease is associated with inflammation of the apocrine glands due to the penetration of pathogens. Symptoms are unpleasant, but with timely access to a doctor, you can quickly get rid of them. With the transition of the disease to the chronic stage, treatment is delayed for weeks.

Hidradenitis is a disease associated with apocrine sweat glands. There is a blockage of the ducts, the penetration of bacteria and the formation of painful purulent nodes. Localization on the body can be in any place where there are sweat glands, but most often the armpit and groin area suffers. The people call the disease a bough udder because of the similarity of abscesses with the nipples of dogs.

Inflammation in the groin in men can affect the scrotum, anus, genital folds. In women, the nodes are most often localized on the labia. Only the labia majora is affected, as there are no sweat glands on the minor lips. There is a violation of the process of sweating, apocrine channels are clogged, pus begins to accumulate.

By the nature of the course of the disease, hydradenitis is similar to boils. A distinctive feature is the absence of a central rod. Bacteria enter the ducts of the sweat glands through hair follicles, abrasions on the surface of the skin, or from infected internal organs.

The cause of the inflammatory process is most often Staphylococcus aureus or bacteria of the streptococcal group. Factors provoking the onset of the disease:

• decreased immunity due to frequent colds, insufficient sleep, poisoning, stress;
• diseases of the endocrine system affecting the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pituitary gland;
• disruptions in the hormonal background during pregnancy, menopause, inflammatory processes occurring in the genitals;
• increased sweat formation;
• skin diseases (dermatitis, allergic manifestations);
• malnutrition (lack of vitamins, starvation, vegetarianism);
• wearing tight underwear made of synthetic fabrics;
• side effects from taking certain medications (most often antibiotics, hormonal agents, immunosuppressants);
• non-compliance with hygiene rules.

Shaving the intimate area can increase the risk of developing hydradenitis, during which abrasions and scratches may remain.

If you do not start treatment, then complications of hydradenitis on the labia develop. An abscess of the soft tissues of the genital organs may develop, phlegmon is formed in the small pelvis, thrombosis of the small pelvis and lower extremities develops.

The manifestation of the disease

Symptoms of inguinal hidradenitis bring a lot of inconvenience. The disease can be life-threatening, so you need to know the signs:

1. On the first day, a small reddish-colored seal appears, which hurts and itches.
2. After a couple of days, the seal becomes large, it can reach a diameter of 2 cm, the color is red-burgundy. The pain bothers not only during movement, but also at rest. There are cases of a rise in body temperature up to 39 degrees. Weakness, dizziness join, sleep is disturbed.
3. Next to the main inflammatory focus, other nodes appear, which gradually merge.
4. The area of ​​edema and inflammation increases, the pus in the nodes becomes even larger, the color is maroon. Sometimes, under the pressure of pus, the abscess opens, as a result of which the person's condition improves.
5. After opening, a bleeding and festering wound is formed, which gradually shrinks. A scar appears at the site of the wound.

You can not squeeze out pus on your own. The infection can spread to neighboring tissues and organs, get into the blood.

The doctor will be able to make a diagnosis during the examination. The next survey plan will look something like this:

1. A blood test shows an increased number of leukocytes, a decrease in erythrocytes.
2. Bacterial examination of the contents of the nodes helps to establish not only the cause of the infection, but also to determine the sensitivity to certain antibiotics.
3. A urine test will be required to exclude the penetration of infection into the urinary organs.
4. A biochemical blood test is necessary to determine the C-reactive protein.
5. In the case of the transition of the disease to the chronic stage, it is necessary to pass an immunogram to determine the cause of constant suppuration.

If hydradenitis of an intimate place is confirmed, you should immediately begin therapeutic actions.

Therapeutic measures

With the appearance of hidradenitis in the groin, treatment can be carried out by conservative and operative methods:

1. Antibiotics of the tetracycline, penicillin series, macrolides, fluoroquinolones are able to stop the inflammatory process: Amoxiclav, Azithromycin, Doxycycline.
2. If the disease is accompanied by a high rise in body temperature, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be prescribed: Diclofenac, Naklofen.
3. Abscesses can be treated with ointments, creams and solutions. Bactericidal ointments are used for compresses: Clindamycin, Levosin.
4. Antiseptics such as Chlorophyllipt alcohol solution, Dioxidin will help to disinfect the surface.
5. Sometimes corticosteroids are prescribed.
6. If the abscess begins to mature, you can apply a gauze bandage with ointments such as: Levomekol, Ichthyol or Vishnevsky ointment. The bandage is fixed with a plaster and left overnight. In the morning after removing the bandage, treat the place with brilliant green or iodine.

Treatment can be supplemented with a course of vitamins, immunomodulators, prebiotics, and a course of physiotherapy.

If the abscess does not break through on its own, but an abscess forms, surgical intervention is performed. A deep incision is made to healthy layers of the skin, treated with antiseptics and antibiotics. Rubber drainage is installed for a day so that the remaining liquid comes out.

When one abscess appears, the operation is performed under local anesthesia. The site of inflammation is chipped with Lidocaine. In the case of repeated appearance of an abscess in the same place, a decision is made to remove the sweat gland at the site of the lesion. After removing the nodes, a bandage with Vishnevsky ointment is applied. Removal of the entire inflamed area occurs with multiple nodes under general anesthesia.

During treatment, you should follow some rules that will help achieve a speedy recovery and prevent the spread of infection:

1. You can't take a bath. It is allowed to wash in the shower, but first you should seal the site of inflammation with a band-aid.
2. Clothing should not be tight. It is better to choose underwear made from natural fabrics.
3. You can not shave the groin area, you can only cut the hairs.
4. You can not eat spicy, salty foods, you should refuse confectionery, nicotine and alcohol.
5. Do not use deodorants because they further clog the sweat ducts.

In the fight against hydradenitis, traditional medicine recipes can be used:

1. Warming up of the inflamed area with dry heat is shown. For this purpose, you can use a blue lamp or apply a heated towel to the place every hour.
2. You can draw out pus and reduce inflammation with onions. The onion is divided into slices, placed in the oven for 15 minutes, and then applied to the knots.
3. Aloe relieves swelling, prevents the spread of bacteria, disinfects the surface. It is necessary to take the fleshy leaf of the plant, wash it, remove the skin and attach it to the sore spot, fixing it with a plaster.
4. Curd compress helps. Mix equal amounts of cottage cheese, butter and sour cream. The bandage with the composition is left all night.
5. You can make lotions from decoctions of herbs such as: chamomile, succession, calendula. Herbs pour boiling water, insist. Then a gauze bandage soaked in the decoction is applied to the abscess for about 20 minutes.

Hidradenitis is dangerous with complications. Purulent processes can spread to internal organs and blood. Timely treatment will help to avoid the transition of the disease to the chronic stage and prevent relapse.

Formed hidradenitis in the groin is accompanied by an inflammatory process in the intimate organs and suppuration of the apocrine sweat glands. This pathological disease is provoked by infection, mainly by staphylococci. The disease often affects the female sex of a young age, but it can also develop in the male part of the population.

Causes of the disease and its course

Hidradenitis of the inguinal region develops due to infection with staphylococcus aureus. Streptococcus and Proteus lesions are much less common. The following factors can provoke this:

• non-compliance with personal hygiene;
• hormonal disorders;
• diseases of the endocrine system;
• excessive sweating;
• disruptions in metabolism;
• disruption of the immune system;
• constant stressful situations and nervous strain;
• wearing tight wardrobe items;
• preference for underwear made from non-natural materials.

The following conditions become risk factors:

• diseases affecting the skin, for example, dermatitis;
• frequent skin injuries: scratches, open wounds.

Since inguinal hidradenitis is characterized by a purulent process, it is often confused with boils. However, these are different diseases, the described ailment is distinguished by the absence of a rod. Pathogenic microorganisms enter the apocrine glands through abrasions, ducts. In women, hydradenitis often appears on the labia, in men - in the pubic area. Three stages of the course of deviation in the groin:

• acute;
• chronic;
• complicated.

The last stages are characterized by the appearance of a large number of fistulas, which, after healing, leave rough scars on the skin. When timely therapy of the acute degree of the disease is not carried out, it passes into the chronic stage and systematically recurs.

What symptoms indicate the disease?

At the initial stage of the development of a pathological condition, seals appear in the subcutaneous layer, a person complains of burning, itching, and mild pain. After a few days, the size of this area becomes larger, and pus accumulates inside. The fistula hurts a lot, purulent discharge appears. The place where the abscess is localized swells, the skin becomes red.

Then the patient complains about the symptoms of poisoning of the body, which are expressed in the form of an increase in body temperature, a general deterioration in health, and vomiting. When the fistula is large and a significant amount of pus has accumulated in it, sometimes it opens on its own. The exudate comes out or affects the internal tissues, which is a rather serious consequence of the disease.

Are there complications?

The consequences of inguinal hidradenitis are observed when timely treatment of the pathology is not carried out. For the advanced stages, it is characteristic that the process of inflammation turns on fatty tissue, which is why phlegmon develops, which is an acute diffuse purulent inflammation of the cell spaces. If the lymph nodes are located near the apocrine glands, which are affected by inflammation, the likelihood of lymphadenitis is not excluded. During this disease, the localization of the inflammatory process is the lymph nodes. Pathology is often accompanied by suppuration. When the patient neglects treatment in this situation, the purulent process affects the soft tissues, provoking the occurrence of an abscess, which, in turn, can cause the development of sepsis.

How is the treatment?

Medical therapy

Hydradenitis in an intimate place involves the appointment of the following medications to the patient:

• Antibacterial drugs. The group of cephalosporins and tetracyclines is more commonly used. Before prescribing a certain pharmaceutical agent, the patient will need to undergo a test, the results of which will show the sensitivity of the pathogen to the active components of the medication. Antibiotics are prescribed in tablet form. If the disease is diagnosed in women while breastfeeding, pharmaceutical preparations are selected with special care.
• Bactericidal drugs for topical use and patches. Ointments and creams are needed to make compresses for the groin area. The drug most commonly used is Chlorhexidine.
• Corticosteroids. When antibiotic therapy does not bring the desired therapeutic effect, hormonal medications are prescribed.
• Alcohol. With it, the damaged skin in the groin around the area of ​​\u200b\u200binflammation is treated. Thanks to this, it is possible to dry the fistula and provoke the removal of pus from it.

Surgery

Treatment of hidradenitis with the help of surgery is carried out in situations where the patient has an abscess in the groin. The abscess is opened, after which it is washed with antiseptic solutions. After surgery, therapy is aimed at preventing the absorption of pus into the skin, so the wounds are not rewound with a bandage. A bactericidal patch is applied on top of the operated area. In addition, after surgery has been performed, patients will need to follow a diet, take antibacterial drugs, as well as vitamin and mineral complexes that can be purchased at pharmacy chains.