NewsThe first case of HIV infection linked to a cosmetic procedure

The first case of HIV infection linked to a cosmetic procedure

The investigation led to the closure of the clinic located in New Mexico.
The investigation led to the closure of the clinic located in New Mexico.
Images source: © Getty Images | seksan Mongkhonkhamsao

29 April 2024 14:27

The American federal medical agency CDC has confirmed the first case of HIV infection during a cosmetic procedure. Three victims chose to undergo what's known as a vampire facelift in an unlicensed clinic - ABC portal reported.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American federal agency concerned with public health protection, officially confirmed the first case in history of HIV infection during a cosmetic procedure. This information was conveyed by the ABC portal, citing the results of the investigation carried out by the CDC.

Victim of the "vampire facelift"

According to the agency's report, three individuals fell victim to HIV infection after undergoing what is known as a vampire facelift. This procedure was conducted in an illegal clinic, which did not have the proper licenses.

After several years of investigation, the CDC concluded that it is very likely that the clinic repeatedly used disposable needles for procedures.

The risk of HIV infection due to the use of improperly sterilized needles is well-researched and recognized. However, as the ABC portal emphasized, until now, there has not been a recorded case of HIV infection in the context of cosmetic procedures.

The investigation led to clarification

The vampire facelift, also known as platelet-rich plasma mesotherapy, involves directly administering plasma that was previously collected from the patient into the skin.

The clinic's fault was discovered when it turned out that one of the patients had been infected with HIV, which causes AIDS. Interestingly, this person had no known risk factors for infection. The investigation, which led to the discovery of this situation, resulted in the closure of the clinic located in New Mexico and charges against its owner.