Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic, inflammatory disease. Despite the limited literature on the use of the Er‐YAG laser for deroofing in hidradenitis suppurativa, its mechanism is similar to that of the carbon dioxide laser, suggesting that it could be a useful alternative treatment. This study aims to assess the efficacy of Er‐YAG laser treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa lesions and identify potential factors associated with treatment success. Medical records of 94 patients with Hurley Stage II or III disease who underwent Er‐YAG laser treatment were retrospectively reviewed. The laser was used to incise the skin and subcutaneous fat, followed by vaporization to remove diseased apocrine glands. Wound healing was achieved through secondary intention. Posttreatment follow‐up was scheduled at 8 weeks to assess remission and at 6 months to assess recurrence. Complete remission was achieved in 87% of patients at 8 weeks, and 94% of these patients were disease‐free at 6 months. Patients reported high satisfaction. Significant negative associations with outcomes were found for obesity (body mass index ≥ 30) and Hurley Stage III disease. Er‐YAG laser deroofing is effective for hidradenitis suppurativa. Obesity and Hurley Stage III patients should be aware of their reduced success rates.
Rubinstein et al. (Thu,) studied this question.