Kristine Kucera, PA-C, MPAS, DHS
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) disproportionately affects women of childbearing age. As almost half of pregnancies in the United States are unplanned, dermatology practitioners must give special consideration to medication safety when managing patients in this population.
An article recently published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology discusses prescribing patterns for HS. The analysis reveals that a significant number of women with HS are frequently prescribed medications that may pose a risk during pregnancy. These medications could potentially impact fetal development and overall pregnancy outcomes.
The research highlights the importance of considering pregnancy when prescribing medications to women of childbearing age and the need for careful evaluation and discussion with patients about potential alternative treatments, as well as the need for contraceptive measures. Of course, women of childbearing age may also be likely to present other common skin diseases, like acne, psoriasis, and even eczema. Similar treatment selection and counseling considerations may apply.
Further research and greater awareness are necessary to provide more comprehensive guidelines and protocols for managing HS in women of childbearing potential.
Kristine Kucera, PA-C, MPAS, DHS, is Assistant Clinical Professor, University of Texas Southwestern, Medical Center PA Program, Dallas, TX. She is a member of the DEF Advisory Council.
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