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Tattoo-induced immunologic reaction to red inks

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: A 43-year-old male presented with pruritic nodular lesions in the red dye area of his leg tattoo, which developed 4 weeks after its application. Patch tests were performed using a standard series, and the inks used by the tattooist were tested semi-open. Tests identified a sensitization to 2 inks containing an azo-organic dye (Pigment Red 170), diketopyrrolopyrrole (Pigment Red 254), and copper phthalocyanine (Pigment Blue 15). Histopathological findings suggested a pseudolymphoid reaction, likely driven by T-cell hypersensitivity to the red pigments. Although the utility of patch testing in the assessment of tattoo reactions is not consensual, it can be useful in identifying the offending inks, helping to guide future tattoo choices and prevent recurrences. Patch testing including the suspected ink should not be disregarded from the diagnostic workup.

Source: Asia Pacific Allergy

DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.0000000000000165

Authors: João Vieira, João Marcelino, Sofia Farinha, Miguel Proença, Joana Guimarães, Rui Bajanca, Elza Tomaz

Institutions: Unidade Local de Saúde da Arrábida, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin

Language: English

Topic: Tattoo and Body Piercing Complications

Subfield: Cultural Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4404090286

FWCI:

Cites: 4

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Related to: 10