UCLA

Introduction

Pediatric hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an understudied condition, and the literature describing the provider landscape for this disease is limited. We aim to characterize healthcare utilization in a cohort of pediatric HS patients at an academic institution.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with HS before age 18 were identified via retrospective chart review using ICD-9/10 codes for HS. Data on demographics and HS providers were collected.

Results

We found that half of the pediatric HS patients first presented to primary care with their HS symptoms. There was a mean delay in diagnosis of 2 years. Dermatologists and pediatricians were the principal HS care providers, and dermatologists most frequently prescribed treatment or procedures (63%). We also found a low rate of utilization of the HS specialty clinic (11%). Females, patients with more severe disease, and patients with earlier age of onset were more likely to be seen by a dermatologist.

Conclusions

Dermatologists play a pivotal role in pediatric HS management as principal care providers for patients. Increasing HS awareness among primary care providers, including pediatricians, is critical for early diagnosis and initiation of treatment.