Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) are two skin conditions that share similar symptoms, including inflamed bumps on the groin. HSV outbreaks may also occur anywhere the skin rubs together, such as the armpits.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a viral infection that can cause periodic outbreaks or no symptoms at all. Herpes rash tends to appear on the:

  • groin
  • anus
  • around the mouth

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes periodic outbreaks, typically on areas where the skin rubs together, such as the:

  • groin
  • armpits
  • between the thighs
  • between the buttocks

While neither condition has a cure yet, both are treatable.

Here’s what else to know about how they manifest.

HSV is a viral infection spread through skin-to-skin contact that may cause skin outbreaks over time.

An estimated 64% of people globally have HSV type 1, which commonly causes oral herpes, compared to about 13% of adults (ages 15–49) who have HSV type 2, which commonly causes genital herpes. Herpes is much more common than HS. Though type 1 is more common than type 2, it’s unlikely to be mistaken for HS.

HS is a chronic inflammatory condition that seems to be related to immune system difficulties and genetics. Factors like obesity or smoking worsen it. HS around the mouth is not common.

Can you have HS and HSV at the same time?

Yes, it’s possible to have both HS and HSV simultaneously. According to 2020 research, if you have HS you’re more likely to have other infections affecting the skin, as well as other health conditions.

People with HS are also more likely to have:

  • acne
  • autoimmune conditions
  • inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • anxiety
  • mood disorders, such as depression

HS flares include:

  • medium size, painful abscesses, or bumps under the skin that contain pus
  • “tunneling” under the skin, where tunnel-like cavities develop from the abscesses
  • discolored, swollen, scarred, or otherwise inflamed skin from recurring outbreaks
  • outbreaks where skin rubs together: on the armpits, groin, anus, inner thighs, under the breasts, or between the buttocks

Though most herpes infections are symptomless and go unnoticed, outbreaks can involve:

  • clusters of small, painful fluid-filled bumps on the skin and mucous membranes
  • bumps typically located on the mouth, genitals, or anus

Herpes outbreaks are less likely to cause scarring and widespread skin discoloration unless the bumps burst.

These symptoms tend to come back over time and may recur in or close to the same location. People who are immunocompromised may have more widespread outbreaks.

The exact cause of HS is unknown. However, scientists believe it involves an immune system response combined with inflammation around the hair follicles in areas with sweat glands (like the armpits or groin).

Factors that may increase the likelihood of HS include:

The herpes simplex virus type 1 (oral) or 2 (genital) causes HSV. Transmission occurs through direct contact with affected skin, mucous membranes, or bodily fluids.

Factors that increase the likelihood of contracting herpes include having:

If you think you may have HSV or HS, it’s best to visit a doctor for a diagnosis. A skin test of an active herpes lesion can detect or rule out a herpes infection.

HS can be more difficult for doctors to diagnose. It may require a physical exam and laboratory tests to rule out other conditions.

Since herpes is contagious, it’s important to visit a doctor to determine whether you have it.

For either condition, your doctor can recommend treatment options, which might include medications, hygiene practices, or lifestyle strategies. If you have HS, surgery may be a recommendation.

HS and herpes are two different skin conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including inflamed bumps in the groin area or between the buttocks.

HS outbreaks also typically occur where skin rubs together, like the armpits or inner thighs.

HS is a long-term inflammatory condition, while a viral infection causes herpes and may cause it to recur.

While neither has a cure, treatment may help reduce the impact of symptoms on your day-to-day life. If you have HS, treatment can improve your quality of life.