A systematic literature review of 58 observational studies found that hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) significantly impacts patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) was the most commonly used instrument, with mean baseline scores ranging from 8.4 to 16.9, indicating a large negative impact on HRQoL. Higher DLQI scores were associated with more severe disease and female patients. Pain was frequently assessed using a 11-point numeric rating scale (NRS), with mean scores ranging from 3.6 to 7.7, indicating moderate to high pain levels. HS also negatively affects psychological well-being, with higher scores on depression and anxiety scales. Sexual dysfunction was common, with a larger impact on women. Work productivity and leisure activities were consistently impaired in HS patients. The review highlights the need for more consistent use of HS-specific validated patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments to better assess the impact of HS on HRQoL. HS has a significant negative impact on patients' lives, particularly in those with moderate to severe disease. The study emphasizes the importance of improved disease management to alleviate the burden of HS.A systematic literature review of 58 observational studies found that hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) significantly impacts patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) was the most commonly used instrument, with mean baseline scores ranging from 8.4 to 16.9, indicating a large negative impact on HRQoL. Higher DLQI scores were associated with more severe disease and female patients. Pain was frequently assessed using a 11-point numeric rating scale (NRS), with mean scores ranging from 3.6 to 7.7, indicating moderate to high pain levels. HS also negatively affects psychological well-being, with higher scores on depression and anxiety scales. Sexual dysfunction was common, with a larger impact on women. Work productivity and leisure activities were consistently impaired in HS patients. The review highlights the need for more consistent use of HS-specific validated patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments to better assess the impact of HS on HRQoL. HS has a significant negative impact on patients' lives, particularly in those with moderate to severe disease. The study emphasizes the importance of improved disease management to alleviate the burden of HS.