GENES AND HIDRADENITIS SUPPURATIVA
Approximately one-third of patients report a family history of HS. Researchers have evaluated the inheritance patterns within families who are affected by HS and also performed DNA analysis to determine if genetic changes correlate with the development of HS. Based upon the “family trees” (pedigrees) and genetic analysis, it appears that HS in some families is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. This means that you only have to inherit the gene from one parent. Several mutations or changes in genes that make a protein known as γ-secretase have been found and include the following: PSENEN, PSEN1, and the NCSTN. Unfortunately, additional research suggests that only a minority of HS within families is a result of the above-mentioned mutations and further research needs to be performed. Genetic mutations in combination with other factors may result in HS.
Resources
Ingram JR. The Genetics of Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Dermatol Clin. 2016;34(1):23-28.
