Inflammation in green (chromium) tattoos during patch testing.
We report three patients with permanent tattoos and chronic dermatitis. During patch testing, the patients' dermatitis worsened, and the previously quiescent green-colored portions of the tattoos became inflamed. All three patients were patch-tested and had positive reactions to potassium dichromate 0.25% in petrolatum. Avoidance led to the resolution of both the dermatitis and the tattoo inflammation. We recommend assessment of permanent tattoos for inflammation in all patients undergoing patch testing, for additional diagnostic correlation.
University of California, San Diego, Department of Medicine (Dermatology), 400 W. Arbor Drive, #8420, San Diego, CA 92103-8420, USA. sjacob@contactderm.net
Sharon E
SE
Jacob
Mari Paz
MP
Castanedo-Tardan
Marianna L
ML
Blyumin
D000485:Allergens; D004396:Coloring Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation; D010328:Patch Tests; D011192:Potassium Dichromate / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013653:Tattooing / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000485:Allergens; D004396:Coloring Agents; D011192:Potassium Dichromate