UC Davis Health has opened a new specialty clinic focused on treating a skin condition called hidradenitis suppurativa..
The clinic is a part of the UC Davis Department of Dermatology.
What is hidradenitis suppurativa?
Hidradenitis suppurativa, or HS, is a chronic skin condition. Symptoms include painful bumps, abscesses (boil-like lumps) and scarring. The affected skin is usually in areas like the underarms, groin and under the breasts. HS tends to affect females more often than males. Risk factors include obesity, smoking, a family history of the condition and hormonal changes.
HS is more common than many people realize, but it's often misunderstood. HS is sometimes called acne inversa, but it's not the kind of acne that people typically think of. HS needs a different kind of care. Because it can be hard to recognize, some patients go years without the right diagnosis or treatment.
Why HS patients need specialized care
HS is a complex disease. It can be linked to other health problems and often requires advanced treatments that target inflammation. Being seen by dermatologists who have a deep understanding of HS can make a big difference for patients. At UC Davis Health, those specialists are health sciences assistant clinical professors Boya Abudu and Jonathan Rick, co-directors of the new UC Davis Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinic.
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"We want to improve access and provide consistent care," said Abudu. "HS doesn't just affect the body; it can affect patients' mental health, too. That's why we're offering longer appointments for new patients, especially those early in their disease. Getting the right treatment early on can make a big difference."
"HS is a pretty complicated disease," said Rick. "It often comes with other health issues and may need treatments like biologics or immune-suppressing medications. We're also launching clinical trials soon, which will give patients access to leading-edge care."
Make an appointment
If you or someone you know is struggling with painful skin bumps that won't go away, talk to your primary care provider or reach out directly to UC Davis Health.
The UC Davis Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinic will see patients at two locations:
- 3301 C Street, Suite 1300
Sacramento, CA 95816
- 77 Cadillac Drive, Suite 240
Sacramento, CA 95825
