The Role of Biologics for Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

EP: 1.Recognizing Hidradenitis Suppurativa: From First Signs to an Accurate Diagnosis

EP: 2.Hidden in Plain Sight: Strategies to Improve Early Identification of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

EP: 3.The Pharmacist Advantage: Bridging Gaps in Hidradenitis Suppurativa Care

EP: 4.Health Equity in Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Addressing Care Disparities

EP: 5.Proactive Hidradenitis Suppurativa Management: From Watchful Waiting to Active Intervention

EP: 6.Building Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment Plan: Evaluating Standard of Care Pharmacotherapies

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EP: 7.The Role of Biologics for Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

EP: 8.A Personalized Approach: Considerations for Appropriate Biologic Selection in Hidradenitis Suppurativa

When considering the initiation of biologic therapy for patients with this disease, it’s important to evaluate individual factors beyond just the number of lesions, including their location and the overall impact on the patient. Current guidelines, though evolving, support starting biologics sooner for patients with moderate to severe disease, especially when symptoms are severe, such as widespread inflammation and drainage. Early introduction of biologics, alongside other treatments like antimicrobials and hormonal therapy, can help control the disease aggressively to prevent progression and further complications.

The decision to start biologics is heavily influenced by the disease’s impact on quality of life. Visible skin symptoms and chronic pain significantly disrupt daily functioning and social participation. Delaying effective treatment can lead to worsening symptoms, reduced educational and employment opportunities, and long-term social isolation. It’s crucial to address these factors early to improve patient outcomes and prevent the disease from hindering a person’s ability to engage fully in society. Using a combination approach from the outset aims to “hit it hard” and minimize long-term damage.

From a health care system perspective, investing in biologic therapies upfront may be cost-effective by preventing costly hospital admissions, surgeries, and complications related to antimicrobial resistance. While biologics can have a higher initial cost, they can reduce overall health care utilization and improve patients’ quality of life. This approach aligns with the broader goal of managing total cost of care, emphasizing prevention of avoidable downstream expenses and supporting better long-term outcomes for patients.