Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is currently known to be an autoinflammatory condition, not an autoimmune disorder. Here's a detailed breakdown:
- Autoinflammatory vs. Autoimmune
- Autoinflammatory: Involves the innate immune system, which is the body's first line of defense. In HS, genetic mutations may cause the body Show Full Answer
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is currently known to be an autoinflammatory condition, not an autoimmune disorder. Here's a detailed breakdown:
- Autoinflammatory vs. Autoimmune:
- Autoinflammatory: Involves the innate immune system, which is the body's first line of defense. In HS, genetic mutations may cause the body to produce immune cells by mistake, leading to constant inflammation.
- Autoimmune: Involves the adaptive immune system, which creates antibodies to fight specific pathogens. In autoimmune reactions, these antibodies mistakenly attack the body's own healthy cells.
- Current Understanding:
- Researchers are still studying whether HS involves an autoimmune reaction. Elevated levels of certain antibodies have been detected in people with HS, but it's unclear if these antibodies worsen inflammation through an autoimmune reaction.
- Genetic Factors:
- Genetic mutations may play a role in HS, making skin cells more prone to irritation and inflammation. About one-third of people with HS report having a family history of the condition.
- Related Conditions:
- People with inflammatory bowel diseases (like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) and inflammatory joint conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis) are more likely to develop HS.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the article "Is HS an Autoimmune Condition?" on myHSteam.
October 11