Although Danbyet al. 51 reports reduced PAS positivity in the basement membrane zone at the sebo-follicular junction associated with inflammation in HS, it is likely that the reduced basement membrane integrity is secondary to inflammation and release of TGF-β and MMP252 (cytokines known to be altered in HS lesional skin and consistent with an abnormal wound healing response) rather than the follicular rupture being the primary driver of inflammation. This evidence concerns the gene TGFB1 and histiocytic sarcoma.