A Dermatologist has cold sores but treating patients?

Question

I recently started going to a new Dermatologist, each time I see him, he has very aggressive blistering cold sores. Sometimes he touches my forehead with his bare hands to point out muscles, before putting on gloves to inject botox. I'm also concerned that spit will fly from his mouth when he speaks so closely to my face, leaving me at risk of contracting oral Herpes. Should a physician treat patients when they have oral herpe outbreak? Am I at risk?

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

I am a board certified ophthalmologist in addition to being a fellowship trained oculofacial surgeon.  That means in my career, I have treated and seen many patients with highly contagious pink eye.  It is far more contagious than a cold sore.  I have never contracted pink eye.  That is because I am meticulous.  My office is spotless and we disinfect every surface after pink eye patients.  Most reasonable doctors with a cold sore might consider covering their face with a mask and explain that they are getting over a cold.  This one seems to be insensitive to these concerns.  I think it is reasonable and appropriate to form an opinion regarding their clinical judgment based on this experience. Finding a new dermatologist is a very reasonable choice.

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

Hmmm.
If you are having these concerns and feel uncomfortable, you may want to seek care from another physician.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

No, it is unlikely that you would contract herpes from your Doctor. If you remain concerned, I recommend following up with your primary care Doctor. Best, Dr. Emer

Jessica H. Kim, MD, FAAD · Answer

Skin to skin contact is required to transmit herpes infection so it would be difficult to acquire such an infection from your doctor.  However, if you have such strong concerns you should consider finding another physician.  It is extremely important to have confidence and trust in your physician, especially when you are seeking elective procedures.

Alix J. Charles, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. The herpes virus is transmitted with skin to skin contact so you are probably not at risk of contracting it from him. If you are really that uncomfortable seeing this physician, though, it will be difficult to forge the type of bond with him that can lead to optimal care. Consider finding someone else whom you are more comfortable seeing. Best of luck to you.

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

Most likely you are not really at risk but it is obvious you are uncomfortable with this doctor so it would be best to change doctors

A Dermatologist has cold sores but treating patients?

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