MLHU: Patients of London dermatology clinic at risk of infection dating back to 2012

Local health officials are alerting current and past patients of a London dermatology clinic that they may have been exposed to blood-borne illnesses over the past 13 years.

The Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) reported a failure to meet safety standards at DermEffects, located at 1560 Hyde Park Road. MLHU said the inspection was done as a result of a complaint.

The potential exposure period is from Jan. 3, 2012, to Jan. 13, 2025. Patients who received punch biopsies, curettage, and cautery and excision procedures during that time period are considered at risk of contracting a blood-borne infection.

Patients who received procedures such as liquid nitrogen, lasers, or injections are not at risk, according to the health unit.

Infection prevention and control (IPAC) lapses involve a failure to follow cleaning and sterilization practices. This can lead to bacterial skin infections, and, in rare circumstances, it can also spread blood-borne infections. In its investigation into DermEffects, MLHU found that some medical instruments used in the above-referenced procedures may not have been sterilized properly before reuse.

According to the MLHU, no known infections have been reported from this IPAC lapse, and the clinic remains open. The health unit said DermEffects is now meeting safety standards, and there is no ongoing risk to patients.

At-risk patients are being urged to speak with their doctor to determine if testing for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV is needed. For those without access to a family doctor, MLHU recommends visiting a walk-in clinic.

For more information, visit the MLHU website.