Infection control in aesthetic medicine and the consequences of inaction

Abstract

Microbiology is the study of microbes—living organisms so small they can only be seen through a microscope. They are considered the smallest form of life and include bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea and protozoa. Microbes that can cause disease are referred to as pathogens. The relationship between the human body and the microbial world is dynamic; however, despite this lifelong partnership and the undeniable value these organisms bring to both the human body and the earth's ecology, some pathogens are capable of destroying human life. The skin and mucous membranes are the body's protective barriers and if they are breached by pathogens, they can reach subcutaneous tissue, muscle, bone and body cavities. In the field of aesthetic medicine, the injection of a dermal filler into the soft tissues is one of the most sought after treatments. This procedure can incorporate multiple injection passes from skin to bone. There is therefore a risk of an infectious complication arising if all traces of make-up are not removed and the skin disinfected, if there is inadequate hand antisepsis or environmental disinfection, and if aseptic technique is not executed during the delivery of these injections.