If you have persistent cysts or inflammation in your armpits, groin or inner thighs, be aware they may be more than a minor annoyance.
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, painful skin condition involving recurring lumps and boils in skin-fold areas, driven by inflammation rather than infection or poor hygiene.
Research shows that people with HS have higher rates of squamous cell carcinoma, lymphoma and colorectal cancer, according to a population-based study in JAMA Dermatology. At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we stress that early treatment and regular monitoring are your best protection.
What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we frequently diagnose and treat hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes deep, painful lumps under the skin. These lumps typically develop in areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the armpits, inner thighs and groin. Also known as acne inversa, HS can closely resemble pimples or acne cysts, but it is not acne.
HS begins in the hair follicles, which become clogged with keratin. As bacteria breed inside the blocked follicle, it eventually bursts, triggering painful nodules or abscesses. Without treatment, the condition can worsen and lead to deeper wounds and a major impact on quality of life.
HS is also linked to other conditions such as metabolic syndrome, inflammatory arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Because it is frequently misdiagnosed, early evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist is essential for timely, effective management.
Is There a Link Between HS and Cancer?
Research confirms that patients with HS have an increased risk of developing cancer. A peer-reviewed article in Clinics in Dermatology explains that chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation in HS may contribute to cancer development, especially in areas of long-term skin damage.
A population-based study in JAMA Dermatology found that HS is linked to a higher risk of overall cancer and several specific cancers, including Hodgkin lymphoma and oral and throat cancers, colorectal cancer and nonmelanoma skin cancer. Importantly, cancer risk rises with HS severity.
Because some cancers can look like HS lesions, any new, rapidly growing or treatment-resistant lesion should be checked by a dermatologist right away.
Types of Cancer Associated with HS
One concerning skin-related cancer relating to HS is cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which can originate directly within HS lesions.
A systematic review from the National Institutes of Health found that SCC linked to HS occurs in about 0.5 to 4.6 percent of cases, most often in men and in the buttock and anogenital areas. Chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, scarring and HPV infection are key contributing factors.
Beyond skin cancer, the JAMA Dermatology study identified significantly elevated risks for Hodgkin lymphoma, oral cancers, cancer of the central nervous system, nonmelanoma skin cancer, prostate cancer and colorectal cancer in HS patients. Additionally, hematologic malignancies and other solid tumors have been reported.
Early and ongoing dermatologic monitoring is essential.
Why Might HS Increase Cancer Risk?
The biggest factor is long-term inflammation.
When skin is repeatedly damaged over time, as in HS, the immune system can become overworked and less balanced. This creates conditions where healthy cells are more likely to undergo cancerous changes. Scarring also plays a role, as it disrupts the tiny vessels and nerves in the skin, making it harder for immune cells to do their job and leaving the area more vulnerable.
There are also genetic factors at play. HS affects certain cell signaling pathways that normally help prevent tumors from forming. Smoking can disrupt these pathways further, and specific gene mutations linked to HS have been found in some HS-related skin cancers. HPV infection may also raise the risk.
In short, a combination of immune system problems, genetics and lifestyle factors like smoking can all contribute to cancer risk in people with HS. The more severe the HS, the higher the risk appears to be.
Warning Signs That Warrant Immediate Evaluation
At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we want our patients with HS to know that not every change in their skin is a normal part of the disease. Some signs need prompt attention.
One of the most important things to watch for is a lesion that is new, rapidly growing or simply not getting better with your usual HS treatment. Research shows that primary cancers like squamous cell carcinoma and mucinous adenocarcinoma, can masquerade as HS lesions, making it easy to overlook something serious. Breast cancer skin metastases have also been known to mimic HS.
If you notice a wound or sore at a current or past HS site that looks or feels different, do not wait. If you develop symptoms such as painless swollen lymph nodes, persistent fatigue, unexplained fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss, seek evaluation right away. These can be early signs of lymphoma.
The Role of Dermatology in Hidradenitis Suppurativa Monitoring
At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., ongoing monitoring is one of the most important things we can offer our patients.
Because HS is a chronic condition that can worsen over time, regular medical dermatology care helps us track skin changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. Dermatologists are skin cancer specialists, and we are trained to spot early signs of skin cancer, which can develop within long-standing HS lesions and is highly treatable when caught early.
We also know that some cancers can masquerade as HS lesions, making expert evaluation essential. When a lesion is new, rapidly growing or not responding to treatment, we move quickly to rule out cancer.
Consistent care saves lives. If you have HS, staying connected with our team is one of the best steps you can take.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does everyone with Hidradenitis Suppurativa develop cancer?
No. Having HS does not mean you will develop cancer. However, research shows that people with HS do have a higher overall cancer risk compared to those without the condition. That risk appears to grow as HS becomes more severe and long-lasting, which is why staying on top of your care matters.
What type of cancer is most common with HS?
The most closely linked cancer is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a type of skin cancer that can develop directly within long-standing HS lesions, most often in the buttock or groin area. People with HS also have an increased risk of other cancers, including Hodgkin lymphoma and colorectal, oral and nonmelanoma skin cancers.
How often should someone with Hidradenitis Suppurativa see a dermatologist?
We recommend regular visits so we can monitor your skin closely. Dermatologists are trained skin cancer specialists who can catch early changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. The frequency of visits depends on your individual case, so talk to our team about what schedule makes sense for you.
Can treating HS reduce cancer risk?
Keeping HS under control may help reduce the chronic inflammation that contributes to cancer risk. As noted by research published by JAMA Network, “The aberrant immune response and chronic inflammation in HS and genetic and environmental factors associated with the disease may all be factors in the development of cancer.” Lesions that go untreated for many years are most associated with cancerous changes, so early and consistent treatment is important.
Should I be screened for cancer if I have Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Yes, more intensive cancer monitoring may be warranted for people with HS, particularly those with severe or long-standing disease, according to a National Institutes of Health systematic review. At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we watch for any lesions that are new, rapidly growing or not responding to treatment, as these can be signs of cancer that need prompt evaluation.
Schedule a Dermatology Consultation
If you have hidradenitis suppurativa, do not wait to get the monitoring you need. At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., our dedicated team is here to help you stay ahead of complications.
With 40+ locations and same-day appointments available, expert care is closer than you think. Book online for a consultation at a location near you today.