Lymphedema in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa: a systematic review of published literature

Abstract

Lymphedema appears to be a relatively rare complication of chronic HS that most commonly affects the anogenital region. Based on the evidence available, dermatologists should pursue a collaborative approach with surgery in the management of this condition at early stages.

Acne inversa/Hidradenitis suppurativa – Von der Pathogenese zur Therapie

“…B. in Rektum oder Urethra, oder zur dauerhaften Obstruktion von Lymphgefäßen mit nachfolgender Lymphödembildung (z. B. skrotale Elephantiasis bei langandauernder Entzündung im Genitalbereich) kommen [5,30,31]. Eine seltenere, jedoch sehr schwerwiegende Komplikation ist die Entstehung von Plattenepithelkarzinomen in lang bestehenden chronisch-entzündlichen Läsionen [32].…”

Genital lymphedema associated with hidradenitis suppurativa unresponsive to adalimumab treatment

“…Lymphedema usually affects the limbs but may be observed in any part of the body, including the genital area 1 . In this anatomic site, genital lymphedema (GL) is an uncommon, debilitating and probably underrecognized complication of long-standing and severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) 2 . In a systematic review of 27 patients (mean age, 46 years; range, 38-58 years) presenting with GL secondary to HS, men were more affected, and the clinical presentation varied from soft to hard swelling of the penis and of the scrotum to induration and/or verrucous papules or nodules 2 .…”

“…In this anatomic site, genital lymphedema (GL) is an uncommon, debilitating and probably underrecognized complication of long-standing and severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) 2 . In a systematic review of 27 patients (mean age, 46 years; range, 38-58 years) presenting with GL secondary to HS, men were more affected, and the clinical presentation varied from soft to hard swelling of the penis and of the scrotum to induration and/or verrucous papules or nodules 2 . Complications of GL include lymphangiectasias, lymphangioma circumscriptum, infections, and neoplasms, such as lymphangiosarcoma and squamous cell carcinoma 3 .…”

Letter to the Editor regarding “Lymphedema in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa: a systematic review of published literature”

“…We read with interest the article by Micieli R. and Alav A . Lymphedema and lymphangiectasias are possible complications of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and are consequences of the lymphatic channels obstruction and lymph accumulation in the interstitial space caused by scars and fibrosis.…”

“…Lymphedema and lymphangiectasias are possible complications of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and are consequences of the lymphatic channels obstruction and lymph accumulation in the interstitial space caused by scars and fibrosis. The management of lymphedema in patients with HS may represent a difficult therapeutic challenge …”