Red Flags & When to Go In Person for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Mild) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a skin condition that causes painful bumps, usually in areas like under the arms or groin. In children with mild HS, bumps may come and go but often can be managed with good hygiene and gentle care. Telemedicine can help families learn how to care for HS at home and decide when to seek more help. However, some signs mean a child should see a healthcare provider in person quickly. These include severe pain, spreading redness, fever, or if bumps do not improve with usual care. This guide helps parents and caregivers understand when telemedicine is enough and when in-person care is needed for children with mild HS. Remember, this information is for education and not a diagnosis. Always reach out to a healthcare professional if you are worried about your child's skin or health.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pain or swelling in affected areas — seek in-person care promptly.
• Spreading redness or warmth around lumps, which may suggest infection.
• Fever or chills accompanying skin symptoms — requires urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Education about mild HS and skin care tips.
• Monitoring mild symptoms and treatment response.
• Guidance on lifestyle changes to reduce flare-ups.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Evaluation of severe or spreading infections.
• Management of large abscesses or deep lumps.
• Treatment of fever or systemic symptoms related to HS.

What Is Mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Children?

Mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) causes small, tender lumps under the skin, often in areas like the armpits, groin, or behind the knees. These lumps may break open and heal slowly. In children, mild HS usually means fewer bumps that are less painful and less likely to cause scarring. The condition can come and go over time.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows families to talk with healthcare providers from home. For mild HS, telemedicine can help by:

Telemedicine visits can be a convenient way to get support without traveling.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Sometimes, mild HS can get worse or cause problems that need a doctor’s exam. Go to a healthcare facility if your child has:

Prompt in-person care can prevent complications.

Managing Mild HS at Home

To help your child manage mild HS:

Good skin care can reduce flare-ups and improve comfort.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before a telemedicine appointment:

Being prepared helps the visit go smoothly.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After the visit:

Staying involved helps manage HS effectively.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private space with good lighting for the visit.
• Have your child's medical history and symptom timeline ready.
• Prepare to show affected skin areas clearly on camera.
• List any current medications or treatments your child is using.
• Write down questions or concerns to discuss during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's care plan and medication instructions.
• Keep track of your child's symptoms and any changes.
• Maintain good hygiene and skin care routines as advised.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits as recommended.
• Seek immediate in-person care if red flags develop.

FAQs

What causes Hidradenitis Suppurativa in children?

HS is thought to be caused by blocked hair follicles leading to inflammation. It is not contagious. Genetics and hormones may play a role, but exact causes are still being studied.

Can mild HS be cured?

There is no cure for HS, but mild cases can often be managed well with good skin care and lifestyle changes to reduce flare-ups.

Is HS painful for children?

HS can cause pain, especially if lumps become swollen or infected. Mild HS usually causes less pain but still needs care to prevent worsening.

Can I treat HS bumps at home?

Yes, gentle skin care, keeping areas clean and dry, and warm compresses can help. Avoid squeezing or picking at lumps to reduce infection risk.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

Go to the emergency room if your child has severe pain, spreading redness, fever, or signs of a serious infection.

Sources

1. Hidradenitis Suppurativa — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Clinical Features and Diagnosis — National Library of Medicine.
3. Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Hidradenitis Suppurativa — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have concerns about your child's health or symptoms worsen, please seek evaluation by a healthcare professional in person.