Comparative Review Evaluates Effectiveness and Safety of Treatments for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

A comprehensive systematic review and network meta-analysis published in JAMA Dermatology examine the efficacy and safety profiles of approved and investigational medications for moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Led by Dr. Amit Garg and colleagues from Northwell, the study analyzed data from 25 clinical trials involving 5,767 patients and 39 different treatments. The review highlights that several biologic agents, including sonelokimab, lutikizumab, adalimumab, bimekizumab, povorcitinib, and secukinumab, showed significantly higher rates of clinical response (HiSCR-50) compared to placebo. While these treatments differ in mechanisms and dosing regimens, the comparison indicates no definitive superiority of one over another, with differences in adverse event rates remaining relatively low. Serious adverse events ranged from 0% to 10% across all groups, suggesting a generally acceptable safety profile for these therapies. Overall, the findings suggest multiple effective options for managing moderate-to-severe HS but highlight the need for further research to establish clear treatment preferences based on efficacy and safety profiles.