Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease defined by recurrent nodules, tunnels and scarring involving the intertriginous regions. Although patients with HS present a distinct symptomatology with a subsequent impairment of quality of life, an overall diagnostic time of seven years has been reported. A better and broader understanding of this disease may potentially reduce the diagnostic delay. This review provides an updated overview of diagnosis, monitoring tools as well as early treatment interventions.