Gentian Violet Treatment for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

This is a survey study being conducted to describe how subjects with Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) respond to treatment with gentian violet. The study will rely primarily on qualitative survey responses and quantitative changes in skin appearance.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic disease of the folliculopilosebaceous unit, often found in intertriginous areas of the body. The pain and impairment of HS leads patients to report a decreased quality of life, even in comparison to other debilitating cutaneous disease states. Pharmalogic management of HS can vary from topical antibiotics or intralesional corticosteroids for mild cases to immunosuppressants and biologic agents in refractory cases. Gentian violet is a topical antiseptic used to treat many cutaneous yeast infections. It also has a role in improving wound healing in sites of active ulceration. It is our hypothesis that gentian violet will help minimize skin trauma in sites of active HS to promote improved wound healing and quality of life.

A single application of gentian violet will be topically applied to the site(s) of active HS involvement by a trained staff member. The sites will then be bandaged by staff and patients will be instructed about home maintenance procedures.

Gentian violet is a topical antiseptic used to treat many cutaneous yeast infections. It also has a role in improving wound healing in sites of active ulceration.

Inclusion Criteria: Patients must have active HS, be willing to undergo one application of HS, and agree to follow-up in one month. Exclusion Criteria: Exclusion criteria include children, absent HS lesions at the time of clinic, and cognitive/physical impairments that would make them unable to assess quality of life factors of the survey.