CDC Reports Seven Illnesses After Suspected Fake Botox Injections

In a recent publication on July 11, 2024, in the journal of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, a case study details seven patients who developed illnesses following presumed cosmetic injections of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT). The research, led by Dr. Christine M. Thomas from the CDC in Atlanta, focuses on the subsequent health issues arising from these presumed BoNT injections and sheds light on the products involved in these cases.

The investigation identified three patients from New York City and four from Tennessee, one of whom is a resident of Kentucky. All seven patients were women, aged between 26 and 55 years. The reported symptoms included ptosis (drooping eyelids), dry mouth, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), shortness of breath, and general weakness. All affected individuals sought medical attention, with four requiring hospitalization and two needing intensive care unit monitoring. Fortunately, none of the patients needed intubation or botulinum antitoxin treatment.

The patients reported that they received BoNT injections in nonmedical environments, with the onset of symptoms occurring a median of three days post-injection. It was uncovered that the three Tennessee residents and the Kentucky resident received their injections in a residential setting that was nonmedical, using counterfeit BoNT products. The individual administering these injections was not licensed. Similarly, the three New York City residents received their injections in separate nonmedical settings. For one of these patients, it was confirmed that the injections were administered by an unlicensed individual, while for the other two, it was suspected but not confirmed.

The report emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to inquire about recent BoNT injections when confronting patients with symptoms indicative of botulism. Should botulism be suspected, it is critical to immediately reach out to local or state health departments for guidance and intervention.

This case report underscores a significant public health concern regarding the use of unregulated, nonmedical settings for cosmetic procedures involving BoNT. The findings highlight the risks associated with counterfeit products and unlicensed practitioners. It serves as a cautionary tale, urging individuals to seek cosmetic procedures only from licensed professionals in medical settings to avoid adverse health outcomes.

The healthcare community is advised to remain vigilant and to educate patients about the potential dangers of receiving BoNT injections from unauthorized sources. This report is a call to action for stricter enforcement of regulations surrounding cosmetic procedures, particularly those involving potent substances like botulinum neurotoxin.