Title : A retrospective study to demonstrate the beneficial role of radio frequency ablation in Hailey-Hailey disease in a tertiary care centre from North India
Abstract:
Background: Hailey–Hailey disease is a rare autosomal dominant acantholytic disorder with recurrent flexural vesicles and erosions. Radiofrequency ablation offers benefit through selective epidermal destruction and dermal fibrosis, enhancing epidermal stability. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of RFA as a therapeutic modality for refractory HHD.
Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy, relapse rates, and adverse effects of radiofrequency ablation in patients with Hailey–Hailey disease.
Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 10 patients with clinically and histopathologically confirmed HHD treated with RFA between August 2020 and August 2025 at a tertiary care centre in North India. Procedures were performed using a KLS Martin radiofrequency unit in coagulation mode (depth 8–10 mm, power 10–20). Therapeutic response was categorized as complete (>90%), good (50–90%), moderate (10–50%), or poor (<10%) improvement. Relapse and adverse events were recorded during follow-up (1–5 years).
Results: The mean age of patients was 46.4±4.2 years with male predominance (M:F=4:1). Complete response was achieved in 8 (80%) patients, good and moderate response in one (10%) each. Relapse occurred in 2 (20%) patients within 6–9 months. Pain was the most common side effect (90%), followed by hypopigmentation (100%) and ulceration (10%). Mean patient satisfaction score was 87±7%.
Conclusion: Radiofrequency ablation is a safe, effective, and economical therapeutic option for refractory Hailey–Hailey disease, providing durable remission and high patient satisfaction with minimal adverse effects
