Liraglutide for the treatment of obesity among patients with hidradenitis suppurativa

Background and aims: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is associated with obesity. Weight loss is frequently reflected in an amelioration in the severity of the lesions. Case reports have suggested that liraglutide might improve not only weight but also skin. We aimed to study the effects of liraglutide 3mg in patients with obesity and HS on metabolic and dermatological parameters.

Methods: 14 patients started treatment with liraglutide for 3 months. Severity of the lesions was evaluated using the Hurley Staging System and quality of life with the DLQI (Dermatology Quality Index).

Results: There was a significant reduction in BMI (39.3±6.2 vs 35.6±5.8; p=0.002), waist circumference (121.3±19.2 vs 110.6±18.1cm; p=0.01), CRP (4.5±2.2 vs 3±2.1mg/L; p=0.04), homocysteine (16.2±2.9 vs 13.3±3μmol/L; p=0.005) and plasma cortisol (15.9±4.8 vs 12.6±4.5μg/dL; p=0.007). Hurley (2.6±0.5 vs 1.1±0.3; p=0.002) and DLQI (12.3±2.8 vs 9.7±6.9; p=0.04) improved significantly. In multiple regression analysis, weight loss did not correlate with any inflammatory parameter or Hurley.

Conclusions: Liraglutide 3mg is effective and safe among patients with HS and obesity. Long-term studies are mandatory to assess the effects of liraglutide on skin lesions and inflammatory markers among subjects with HS beyond weight loss.