Aesthetic skin branding: a novel form of body art with adverse clinical sequela.
Branding is a form of body art wherein third-degree burns are inflicted on the skin to produce permanent scars. This method of scarification is a common practice among many indigenous cultures and has become exceedingly common in western societies. As with other forms of body art, branding is not a manifestation of a psychiatric disorder but, rather, a method of self-expression. The process can be performed through the use of electrocautery, laser, chemicals, freezing, and hot metal. Complications arising from the procedure include acute infection, transmission of blood-borne pathogens, allergic reactions, and sequelae arising from third-degree burns. In addition, skin branding has been shown to be associated with substance abuse and high-risk behaviors among adolescents. The purpose of this article is to present the following case report and review to familiarize clinicians with this dangerous method of body art.
Karamanoukian
Raffy
R
From the Aesthetic & Plastic Surgery Institute, University of California, Irvine, Orange 92868, USA.
Ukatu
Chidi
C
Lee
Edward
E
Hyman
Josh
J
Sundine
Michael
M
Kobayashi
Mark
M
Evans
Gregory R D
GR
D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001458:Bandages; D002058:Burns, Electric / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D017439:Cicatrix, Hypertrophic / Q000209:etiology*; D004564:Electrocoagulation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004954:Esthetics; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012837:Silver Sulfadiazine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012867:Skin / Q000293:injuries*
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D012837:Silver Sulfadiazine