FDA Approves Secukinumab for Adolescents With Moderate to Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Secukinumab becomes the only interleukin-17A inhibitor approved for pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa.
By
Kathryn Wighton
March 13, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: FDA Approves Secukinumab for Adolescents With Moderate to Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) Key Mechanisms Inhibition of interleukin-17A, a cytokine involved in inflammation. Target Population Pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with moderate to severe HS. Care Setting Outpatient care for chronic inflammatory skin disease.
Key Highlights
Secukinumab is the only IL-17A inhibitor approved for pediatric HS. Approval expands treatment options for adolescents with limited therapies. HS is characterized by recurrent, painful nodules and potential scarring. More than half of HS patients experience symptom onset during adolescence. Diagnosis of HS may be delayed for up to 10 years. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Consider HS in adolescents presenting with recurrent painful nodules. Management
Utilize secukinumab as a treatment option for moderate to severe HS. Monitoring & Follow-up
Monitor for treatment efficacy and potential side effects. Risks
Potential for delayed diagnosis leading to prolonged suffering. Patient & Prescribing Data
Adolescents aged 12 years and older with moderate to severe HS.
Weight-based dosing in patients over 30 kg yields comparable drug exposure to adults.
Clinical Best Practices
Educate patients and families about HS and treatment options. Encourage early diagnosis to improve management outcomes. Monitor patients for signs of treatment response and adverse effects. References
