[Question #12443] Hiv guasha

7 months ago

Hello doctor,

I was recently in a situation where I underwent a massage session, during which a special technique called Gua Sha was performed on a specific area on my upper shoulder. The area appeared red afterward and seemed to be a bruise. I understand that in the presence of superficial scratches, the risk of transmission would approach zero, even if contaminated blood was present on the masseur’s hand.

Using common sense, I believe the bruise represents intact skin. Moreover, I am confident there were no scratches, as no scabs or scars ever formed. The area only showed redness, which faded to a light brownish color by the sixth day and disappeared entirely by the seventh day. Therefore, even if there had been contaminated blood rubbed on the area, I believe there was absolutely no risk.

Additionally, common sense suggests that the virus cannot survive when exposed to massage oils or products like Vicks, further reinforcing the absence of any potential risk.

Is my reasoning correct?

Thank you for your time.

Edward W. Hook M.D.

7 months ago

Welcome to our Forum. Thanks for your question. I am supportive of the line of reasoning you describe and cannot see how the events and results of your massage that you describe could put you at risk for HIV or for any other STI. I see no reason for concern and no reason for testing. EWH---

7 months ago

I suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which causes me significant anxiety about diseases, even though I am completely free from any form of relationships or drug use. I read on the CDC website that blood on intact skin is considered completely safe. In my case, no scabs or scars formed on the affected area, which was only red without any visible signs of scratches or wounds, and it healed completely within 7-8 days. I understand that the absence of scabs, scars, or exposed skin indicates that the skin is intact, and I believe that bruises represent healthy, unbroken skin. My reasoning leads me to move forward without fearing any risks, whether practical or even theoretical, even if there was a possibility of blood being present.

Edward W. Hook M.D.

7 months ago

Thanks for acknowledging your OCD. I'm glad to hear that you are moving forward. EWH---

7 months ago

Thank you very much for the reassurance, which I truly needed. So, just to confirm, you agree with my reasoning and suggest moving forward without any risk at all?

Edward W. Hook M.D.

7 months ago

I agree entirely with your reasoning and urge you to move on.

I'll be closing this thread now. There should be no need to return to the Forum. EWH

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