A case of hidradenitis suppurativa complicated by necrotizing soft tissue infection.
Dhayashri Dhavapalani, Kaylah Maloney, Chifaa Bouzidi et al.
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Case in brief
A 28-year-old man with hidradenitis suppurativa on adalimumab presented with left axillary pain and swelling at a previous HS site. Initial examination showed localized erythema, but after 50 minutes, the erythema had rapidly extended, raising suspicion for necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI). Emergent surgery revealed purulent fluid and nonviable tissue. The patient had a prolonged recovery, requiring 25 days in the hospital.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
In patients with hidradenitis suppurativa, subtle or nonspecific findings may obscure the diagnosis of necrotizing soft tissue infection, necessitating a high index of suspicion and frequent reassessment.
Why it matters
This case highlights the importance of recognizing that underlying skin conditions can complicate the clinical presentation of serious infections, emphasizing the need for timely surgical intervention.