The Impact of Telemedicine on Patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa in the COVID-19 Era.

(1)

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease. It is characterized by the transformation of normal skin into skin with abscesses, nodules, tunnels, and scars. The most commonly affected areas are the armpits, groins, buttocks, and subscapular area. Patients with HS require constant care under the supervision of the outpatient clinic. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, consultations have been introduced in the form of telemedicine. The aim of this study was to evaluate the availability of HS treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic and to assess patient satisfaction, problems with access to medical care, and the impact of the pandemic on the course of the disease. (2)

Methods

An internet survey with an anonymous questionnaire was used to assess the effectiveness of telemedicine consultations. The survey consisted of 25 closed questions, and responses were kept fully anonymous. (3)

Results

Most respondents reported minor problems with accessing specialized HS medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 25, 35.71%). However, 35.71% (n = 25) of them reported major problems with appointments for specialized ambulatory treatment during the last few months of the pandemic, mainly due to delayed appointments. Almost half of the respondents had been diagnosed with COVID-19 (n = 34, 48.57%), and 58.57% (n = 41) of respondents did not see a correlation between COVID-19 infection and HS progression. (4)

Conclusions

Our study showed that the pandemic significantly limited access to medical advice, and patients with hidradenitis suppurativa prefer standard consultations.