Anger, Emotional Fragility, Self-esteem, and Psychiatric Comorbidity in Patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa/Acne Inversa

Hidradenitis suppurativa/acne inversa (HS) is one of the most debilitating inflammatory chronic skin diseases and it heavily impairs the emotional and relational life of the patients. Despite its clinical and epidemiological relevance, its psychological correlates are still largely unexplored. The aim of the present study was to investigate the psychological and emotional impact of HS, with a specific focus on psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression, suicidal ideation, self-esteem, anger, and some personality traits. Thirty eight patients diagnosed with HS (HS Group) were compared with a control group of 28 outpatients diagnosed with nevi (N Group) and assessed with psychometric questionnaires (GHQ-28, STAXI-2, BDI-II, BHS, RSES, EF Questionnaire, and I-R Questionnaire). Results showed significant differences between the two groups, with more psychiatric symptoms, lower self-esteem, and higher levels of state anger and of emotional fragility in HS patients. These findings suggest the evidence of a significant psychiatric comorbidity in HS and of a strong emotional impact of the disease.