Occupational Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Aesthetic Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery: Evidence and Prevention
Dermatologic Surgery, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1097/dss.0000000000005150
- Dergi Adı: Dermatologic Surgery
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Chemical Abstracts Core, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO)
- İstanbul Medipol Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
BACKGROUND – Dermatologic and aesthetic surgery exposes physicians and clinical staff to infectious risks. While patient safety is emphasized, occupational exposure to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remains underrecognized.OBJECTIVE – To evaluate evidence on occupational STI risk in aesthetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery and to summarize prevention strategies.MATERIALS AND METHODS – A structured search of PubMed and major medical databases identified clinical studies, case reports, and guidelines addressing occupational STI transmission in dermatologic surgery. Evidence was categorized by level (CEBM 1a–5).RESULTS – Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the best documented occupational risk, with viral DNA consistently detected in plume and case reports of laryngeal papillomatosis and carcinoma in laser surgeons. Bloodborne pathogens pose additional risks: transmission rates are estimated at 0.3% for human immunodeficiency virus, 0.5% to 10% for hepatitis C virus, and up to 63% for hepatitis B virus (HBV) in unvaccinated individuals. Herpes simplex virus can cause whitlow and ocular infection. Protective measures include smoke evacuation, N95 or laser masks, eye and skin protection, HPV and HBV vaccination, and sharps safety.CONCLUSION – Occupational STI risk in aesthetic and surgical dermatology is preventable but underappreciated. Universal smoke evacuation, vaccination, protective equipment, and standardized postexposure protocols should be adopted to safeguard dermatologists.