PS02 Patient and healthcare professionals’ perspectives on pain management in hidradenitis suppurativa: a quantitative and qualitative study

Abstract

Pain imposes a substantial burden on patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), affecting quality of life, mental health, intimate relationships and daily functioning. The aim of this study was to identify barriers and pre-existing knowledge of healthcare professionals (HCPs) caring for patients with HS, incorporating patient experiences. Two anonymous surveys were developed. One was distributed to HCPs in primary care, dermatologists and pain specialists, and the other to patients with HS. Survey respondents subsequently participated in separate HCP and patient focus groups. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Surveys included 212 HCPs (56 dermatology, 123 primary care, 33 pain) and 129 patients. Most patients (> 60%) experienced frequent pain, with 91% citing flares as most distressing. Pain significantly impacted mood (88%), life enjoyment (85%) and relationships (74%). Severity inversely correlated with physical activity (Spearman ρ = −0.46; P = 0.001) and quality of life (Spearman ρ = −0.39; P ≤ 0.001). The importance of management and frequency of enquiries varied by provider (P < 0.001); dermatologists asked most often (87% vs. 44% primary care) but reported the lowest prescribing confidence. Dermatologists rated access to psychological (median 3 out of 10) and pain services (median 5 out of 10) as inadequate. Themes included flare support, educational gaps, holistic care and the need for better ­primary-secondary care communication and mental health synergy. Dermatology training must address pain management gaps and establish standardized multidisciplinary pathways. Implementing flare self-management and improving coordination between dermatology and primary care is essential to enhance patient outcomes.