Insights into Gut Microbiome Composition in Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Comprehensive Examination of Dietary Habits and Environmental Influences

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between dietary habits, environmental influences, and gut microbiome composition in individuals with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory skin condition. A cohort of 80 participants, equally divided into HS patients and healthy controls, was assessed through comprehensive questionnaires capturing demographics, dietary habits, and other health-related information. Fecal samples were collected and analyzed using next-generation sequencing to examine microbiome composition. Despite previous studies suggesting gut dysbiosis in HS, this research found no significant differences in alpha-diversity and Shannon diversity index between the groups. However, significant disparities in dietary habits were observed, with HS patients showing higher sugar and milk consumption. The study also identified a significant correlation between coffee consumption and the presence of certain bacterial genera. While the study did not reveal major differences in microbiome diversity, the findings on dietary habits and specific microbiome components suggest potential targets for therapeutic intervention. These results underscore the importance of further research into the gut-skin axis and its role in HS, aiming to enhance management strategies through dietary modifications and lifestyle interventions.

Keywords: diet; dietary modifications; gut microbiota; gut–skin axis; hidradenitis suppurativa.

Figure 1

Comparison of the Shannon diversity index between the HS group and healthy volunteers.

Figure 2

LEfSe diagram showing the significant genera in the study and control groups.

Figure 3

Distribution of sugar consumption and the proportion of milk consumption within studied groups.