Gentian Violet Treatment for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

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.