title: The histopathologic spectrum of decorative tattoo complications.
abstract: Tattooing for ornamental purposes is an ancient practice that remains popular in modern times. Tattoos are encountered by the dermatopathologist either as incidental findings on skin biopsies or because of complications specific to the tattoo. A range of neoplasms and inflammatory conditions are seen in association with tattoos, many of which may be attributed to hypersensitivity to tattoo inks. The composition of tattoo inks is highly variable, and inks can contain numerous potentially allergenic or carcinogenic compounds. Infections with bacterial, viral and fungal species can occur after tattooing, sometimes after substantial delay. Atypical mycobacterial infections in particular are increasingly reported; special stains for mycobacteria should be performed and cultures recommended particularly when dense, mixed or granulomatous infiltrates are present.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. mshinoha@u.washington.edu
authors.forename: Michi M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Shinohara
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Nguyen
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gardner
authors.forename: Misha
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Rosenbach
authors.forename: Rosalie
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Elenitsas
mesh_terms: D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004396:Coloring Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007281:Ink; D008178:Lupus Erythematosus, Cutaneous / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D009165:Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D016926:Mycobacterium chelonae / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D019310:Pseudolymphoma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D013653:Tattooing / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D004396:Coloring Agents; D005938:Glucocorticoids