[Lymphedema as a complication of hidradenitis suppurativa in three patients]

Abstract

Background: We report three patients (respectively 36, 52 and 52 years old) with a long history of hidradenitis suppurativa associated with pubic lymph oedema.

Case report: Dramatic pubic oedema was noted, with "rugby-ball and bag-like" tumefaction associated with nodules and fistula. There was no evidence of lymph node involvement or abdominal lymphatic blockade. One patient underwent surgical excision combined with split-thickness graft and complete healing ensued. Pathological examination of the excised tissue showed telangiectasia and fibrosis.

Discussion: Chronic lymphedema affects patients with severe and long-lasting disease. The complication is caused by chronic and recurrent inflammation due to HS with subsequent blockade or destruction of local lymph drainage routes. Once this complication appears, no medical treatment is effective.