Management of hidradenitis suppurativa in Tunisia: A Delphi expert consensus

Abstract

Objectives: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the hair follicles. Guidelines for the management of HS in North Africa are lacking. We aimed to develop the Tunisian consensus for the management of HS using the conventional Delphi method. Material and Methods: A multidisciplinary panel of 33 experts in the management of HS was selected. A two-round Delphi method was conducted. The first questionnaire consisted of 134 items generated based on a review of the latest international guidelines in the management of HS. Results: Among the 134 items proposed in the first round, 73 have reached a consensual agreement (median ≥7, and 70% or more responses were ≥7). An agreement was reached for 32 items proposed in the second round. A management algorithm was developed based on consensual items. Conclusion: The results of this consensus represent a key step in improving the management of patients with HS in North Africa.