NYMC Faculty Publications

The Impact of Hidradenitis Suppurativa on Sexual Health: A Systematic Review

DOI

10.1155/dth/2247169

Journal Title

Dermatologic Therapy

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2025

Department

Dermatology

Keywords

erectile dysfunction, hidradenitis suppurativa, HS, infertility, sexual distress, sexual dysfunction

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

Abstract

Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that significantly impacts patients’ quality of life, particularly in relation to sexual health. Sexual dysfunction and erectile dysfunction are frequently reported among individuals with HS. However, the relationship between disease severity and sexual health outcomes remains unclear. This systematic review aims to explore the impact of HS on sexual dysfunction in both males and females, examining the physical and psychological factors involved. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Medline (OVID), and Web of Science using keywords related to HS and sexual health, including “sexual dysfunction,” “sexual desire,” “erectile dysfunction,” “impotence,” and “infertility.” Studies were screened for relevance, and those that examined sexual health outcomes in HS patients were included. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed qualitatively due to the heterogeneity of the outcome measures. Nonrandomized studies were evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to assess methodological quality. Results: The review found that sexual dysfunction was prevalent in HS patients, with rates ranging from 42% to 71.8%. Female patients consistently reported higher levels of sexual distress, while male patients experienced erectile dysfunction at significant rates, as measured by the FSFI and IIEF. Importantly, worsening disease severity did not consistently correlate with increased sexual dysfunction, suggesting that factors such as pain, odor, and psychological distress may have a greater influence. Conclusion: This review demonstrates that HS significantly impacts sexual health, though the severity of HS does not always correlate with worsening sexual dysfunction. Psychological factors, pain, and genital involvement appear to play a more prominent role. Future research should focus on addressing both the psychological and physical aspects of sexual dysfunction in HS patients and explore the underlying mechanisms linking HS to infertility.

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