Topic 6: The Non-Dermatologist’s Role
| Action | Practical contribution |
| Recognize | Identify recurrent inflammatory disease and progression signals before tunnels develop |
| Document | Record involved regions, lesion types, drainage, scars or tunnels, flare frequency, pain, function, and prior treatment response |
| Treat safely | Address acute symptoms when present without treating HS as infectious |
| Refer or coordinate | Seek timely dermatology input for persistent, recurrent, structurally progressive, burdensome, or treatment-refractory disease |
| Maintain continuity | Avoid gaps, clarify who is monitoring response and safety, and ensure the patient knows when and how to seek reassessment |
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Do not wait for severe disease: Referral is appropriate before extensive tunnel networks form. Existing structural damage does not mean the opportunity has been lost; controlling current inflammation can still protect unaffected tissue, reduce symptoms, and support procedural planning. |