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Potential Exposure to Blood-borne Infections for Some Patients of DermEffects Clinic

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The Middlesex-London Health Unit is alerting current and past patients of DermEffects, a dermatology clinic at 1560 Hyde Park Road, of their potential exposure to blood-borne infections during specific medical procedures.

During a complaint-based inspection, MLHU Investigators identified that a lapse in infection prevention and control (IPAC) practices at this location occurred. This notification is directed specifically to patients who received the following procedures at this location between January 3, 2012, and January 13, 2025:

  • Punch biopsies
  • Curettage
  • Cautery and excision

This alert does not include those who only had non-medical procedures such as laser, or injectables performed with a needle (Botox, filler, etc.). Full description of the procedures listed, and specific examples, can be found on the health unit website.

An IPAC lapse occurs when, for example, cleaning and sterilization best practices are not followed properly, potentially risking infection to clients and employees. Improper sterilization practices can lead to bacterial skin infections, and, in rare circumstances, may spread blood-borne infections. Currently, there are no known infections resulting from this IPAC lapse. The practices that led to this IPAC lapse have been corrected and there are no ongoing risks to patients.

What You Should Do:

  • MLHU recommends that patients of the clinic speak to a healthcare provider as a precaution if they received one of the procedures listed above at DermEffects between January 3, 2012, and January 13, 2025.
  • This will help you assess your risk of blood-borne infections based on the type of procedure received and your overall health status so that you can determine if testing for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV is appropriate.
  • Testing requires a requisition from your healthcare provider and is free for Ontario residents with a health card number. Individuals who do not have a primary care provider and wish to be tested can visit a walk-in clinic.

For more information: www.healthunit.com/faq-dermeffects-ipac-lapse

Tags: blood borne infections, potential exposure, ipac, lapse