Disfiguring Scarring Following Mesotherapy-Associated Mycobacterium cosmeticum Infection

April 2009 | Volume 8 | Issue 4 | Case Reports | 391 | Copyright © April 2009


Kenneth Beer MD and Jill Waibel MD

Abstract
Mesotherapy is a popular procedure that poses risks that include scarring, contour changes and bacterial infections. The benefits of the procedure remain to be objectively delineated in a placebo-controlled, blinded study. Despite the lack of evidence to support its use, it is marketed as a “nonsurgical and safe” way to remove fat. The authors report a case of mycobacterial infection resulting from mesotherapy. This infection should be considered when a patient presents with a mesotherapy complication and should be discussed with the patient prior to the procedure. Options for treatment of the scarring are considered.