Published in JAMA Dermatology. Here is a link to the article.
Regenstrief Institute authors: Rachel Patzer, PhD, MPH
This qualitative study explored how patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) make decisions about biologic treatments like adalimumab. Interviews with 21 patients revealed key factors influencing treatment decisions, including personal pain tolerance, perceptions of treatment risks, treatment fatigue, disease understanding, and information sources. The findings suggest that addressing misconceptions, improving patient knowledge, and emphasizing early treatment to prevent disease progression may help patients engage more actively in their care and consider new therapies.
Affiliations
1Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
2Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
3Department of Dermatology, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, New Hyde Park, New York.
4Department of Dermatology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina.
5Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.