Patients who underwent certain procedures at a well-known London dermatology clinic over the past 13 years are being warned they may have been exposed to blood-borne infections.
The Middlesex-London Health Unit issued the warning Thursday, citing lapses in infection prevention and control at DermEffects, located at 1560 Hyde Park Road. The clinic performs both cosmetic and medical dermatology treatments.
Health officials say the risk applies to patients who had one of three specific procedures—punch biopsies, curettage, and cautery and excision—between January 3, 2012, and January 13, 2025. Punch biopsies involve removing a small section of skin tissue with a special tool. Curettage, cautery, and excision are other methods used to remove skin growths like warts or skin tags.
The warning does not apply to patients who received cosmetic treatments such as laser therapy or injectable procedures like Botox or fillers.
Joanne Kearon, associate medical officer of health for Middlesex-London, said, “We’ve tried to list all the potential procedures involved. But if anyone is unsure whether their treatment is affected, they should speak to their healthcare provider. Their provider can offer a personalized risk assessment.”
The health unit is urging anyone concerned to get tested for infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV to ensure early detection and treatment if necessary.
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