AIDS and infection control in dermatologic surgery

In summary, the AIDS epidemic has created many new questions for the dermatologist, with no clear answers. As dermatologic surgery is increasing in most dermatology practices, the dermatologic surgeon must take a careful look at his office techniques and educate his personnel on the proper handling of blood and body fluids. The medical and ethical issues raised by the AIDS epidemic are complex, with new issues being raised as more is learned about the disease. The adage "do no harm" should be kept in mind in the counseling, diagnosis, and treatment of HIV-infected individuals.