Dapsone to Treat Moderate-to-Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Retrospective Case-Series

Abstract

Background: Management of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is challenging since no single treatment provides consistently effective results, leaving patients with frequent relapses. Dapsone combines anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that address aspects of HS pathogenesis. Few studies have evaluated the efficacy of oral dapsone on HS, especially in severe disease.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients with moderate-to-severe HS treated with dapsone.

Methods: This retrospective chart review evaluated HS patients treated with oral dapsone over the past 10 years at one center. Treatment outcomes were classified based on Hurley staging, physician exam, and symptom progression. Adverse effects and concomitant treatment with dapsone were reviewed.

Results: Nineteen (19) patients with moderate-to-severe (Hurley Stage II-III) HS treated with oral dapsone were identified. Within 1-3 months, on dosages of dapsone varying from 25-100 mg/day, 3 patients (15.8%) had a clinically significant improvement in symptoms, 10 patients (52.6%) had a slight improvement, and 6 patients (31.6%) had no change in disease state; no patients deteriorated. The majority who improved were also on other medications, most commonly adalimumab. 4 patients experienced adverse effects, with nausea being most common; otherwise, dapsone was well-tolerated.

Conclusions: Dapsone may have some efficacy for moderate-to-severe HS and seems well-tolerated. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(11):e12-e16    doi:10.36849/JDD.4936e.