Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) Specialty Clinic

HS Care at UVM Health

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that causes painful cysts, tunnels and abscesses in the arm pits, groin and under the breasts. HS can cause severe scarring and may limit daily activities.

University of Vermont Health is home to the only HS specialty clinic in Vermont and northern New York. Our team is dedicated to helping people with HS find relief, improve quality of life and feel supported every step of the way.

Why Choose UVM Health?

We offer:

Highly skilled experts: Our team includes board-certified dermatologists, physician assistants and clinical pharmacists with advanced training in complex inflammatory skin conditions. As an academic medical center, medical residents and fellows may be part of your care team.
Advanced treatments: We use the latest medical and surgical techniques to treat HS. For your comfort and convenience, we perform dermatologic surgeries as outpatient procedures in our office-based surgery suites.
Coordinated care: Our doctors collaborate with specialists across UVM Health to provide comprehensive, team-based care, including rheumatology, nutrition, OB-GYN, gastroenterology (GI) and endocrinology.
Evidenced-based care: As active researchers and leaders in professional societies, our physicians keep up to date on the latest advances to provide research-driven care.

Conditions We Treat

Our clinic specializes in inflammatory skin conditions, including:

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)
Acne, including moderate to severe or treatment‑resistant acne
Pilonidal cysts

Treatment for HS

While there is no cure for HS, early diagnosis and ongoing treatment can reduce flares, pain and scarring. We provide treatment tailored to your symptoms, disease severity and personal goals.

Medical Treatments

Biologic medications: Target specific immune system pathways that drive HS inflammation
GLP-1 receptor agonists: May help reduce flare ups, drainage and pain while suppressing inflammation
Oral, topical and hormonal therapies: Help manage drainage, reduce inflammation and prevent flares

Surgery & Procedures

De‑roofing: A minor outpatient surgical procedure to remove tunnels and lesions. The area is numbed with lidocaine. The procedure typically takes about an hour and you go home the same day. Healing takes about six to eight weeks. Pain is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Our team provides clear aftercare instructions and ongoing support during the healing process.
Steroid injections: Help reduce pain and inflammation during HS flares

Laser Therapy

Laser hair removal: May help reduce irritation and discomfort by removing hair follicles in affected areas

Patient Resources

HS Foundation: The Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by HS through research, education and advocacy.