How effective is steroid injection into the skin for hidradenitis suppurativa?

Hidradenitis suppurativa causes recurring painful nodules, abscesses, and tunnels in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits or groin. Injected steroid acts inside a chosen inflamed lesion and may reduce swelling and tenderness. It does not remove established tunnels, drain every abscess, or address disease elsewhere on the body. A clinician must decide whether the lump is suitable for injection or needs another approach.

Arrange review for a painful lump that is enlarging, draining, recurring, or limiting movement. Do not squeeze or lance it yourself. Keep the area gently clean, reduce friction, and follow the personalised plan from your clinician. Ask whether injection is being used for short-term relief and what longer-term treatment will reduce new lesions and scarring.

Seek prompt care for rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, fever, chills, foul drainage, or feeling faint or unwell. A soft, fluctuant swelling may need assessment for drainage. Emergency help is appropriate for severe illness, confusion, or breathing difficulty.

Ask whether the lesion is an inflamed nodule, abscess, or tunnel; what benefit the injection is expected to provide; and what to do if it does not settle. Discuss prevention of recurrent lesions and possible local skin thinning or colour change.