Histopathological evaluation of cutaneous reactions to tattoos: Study at a tertiary care center.

BACKGROUND

Tattooing has been around for many years and is becoming an increasingly common fashion trend. As there are often few regulatory laws regarding the practice, an increase in the incidence of cutaneous reactions to tattoo inks is noted. These include allergic reactions, granulomatous dermatitis, infections, lichenoid dermatoses, and sometimes malignancy. The present study examines the histopathological changes seen in patients with cutaneous reactions to tattoo ink.

METHOD

A prospective observational study was conducted over 18 months in the dermatology clinic of a tertiary care center in western India. The study population included 22 patients with cutaneous reactions over the tattoos. Punch biopsy specimens were sent to study the pattern of histopathological response.

RESULTS

All 22 patients studied were between the ages of 17 and 35 years. The mean duration of development of reaction was 8.1 months. Most of the reactions were seen in black ink tattoos performed by amateurs. Perivascular and spongiotic dermatitis suggestive of allergic response was the most common feature on histopathology. Granulomatous response and lichenoid response were seen in five and three biopsies, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Legalization is needed for this practice to prevent tattoo reactions. Histopathological evaluation is important as tattoo reactions may be associated with skin infections and malignancies.