Small molecule inhibitors – future perspectives in the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)

Abstract

In the recent decades, advances in medicine have opened up new horizons in the treatment of a wide range of conditions, including cancers, autoimmune diseases and immune-mediated chronic inflammatory conditions. Common to all of these is the increasing emphasis on researching and implementing targeted therapeutic options as pathogenesis is understood at the molecular level. In the treatment of HS, also known as a member of the follicular occlusive tetrad, this is evidenced by the successful use of monoclonal antibodies, such as the TNF-α inhibitor adalimumab and the anti-IL-17 agent secukinumab, both of which are approved by European and US authorities. However, in moderate and severe HS forms, characterised by a significant deterioration in quality of life and increased physical and psychosocial burden, there remains a tremendous need to expand the number of targeted therapies. In this publication, we review the latest
therapeutic targets that are the subject of a number of completed or ongoing clinical trials. We also discuss the role of small molecule inhibitors in HS therapy along with a few lesser known innovative therapeutic options.