Podcast #269: Tattoo Ink Complications

Emergency Medical Minute

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6+ y ago 4:29

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Author: Michael Hunt, M.D.

Educational Pearls

Tattoo ink is applied below the skin, and because of this, they can lead to keloids, granulomas, tetanus, hepatitis B and C, and skin infections.
Tattoo pigment has been found to contain substances like lead, cadmium, chromium, and arsenic; however, there are no long-term studies of the health effects of tattoos.
In one study 14% of inks had ingredients that were banned in cosmetics.
Nanoparticles of tattoo pigment can be found in the lymph nodes, and laser removal can precipitate their spread.
Those with tattoos could experience complications with MRI because of the metal content of the ink.

References: Khunger N, Molpariya A, Khunger A. Complications of Tattoos and Tattoo Removal: Stop and Think Before you ink. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. 2015;8(1):30-36. doi:10.4103/0974-2077.155072.

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