Leonid Izikson1, Mathew Avram, R Rox Anderson. 1. MGH Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology Center and Wellman Center for Photomedicine, BHX 630, Bartlett Hall, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02445, USA. lizikson@partners.org
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Laser tattoo removal is one of most commonly used indications for medical lasers. Professional tattoos contain a multitude of potentially immunogenic chemicals that are released or modified by laser treatment. We studied potential immunologic reactions following laser tattoo removal. STUDY DESIGN/PATIENTS AND METHODS: Case report of two patients with immunologic reactions after laser tattoo removal. RESULTS: Two patients developed transient immunoreactivity that presented as regional lymphadenopathy after laser tattoo removal of professional black and blue-green tattoos. These reactions resolved without any complications. CONCLUSIONS: Tattoo pigments released or modified by laser therapy may trigger transient immunoreactivity in susceptible individuals.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Laser tattoo removal is one of most commonly used indications for medical lasers. Professional tattoos contain a multitude of potentially immunogenic chemicals that are released or modified by laser treatment. We studied potential immunologic reactions following laser tattoo removal. STUDY DESIGN/PATIENTS AND METHODS: Case report of two patients with immunologic reactions after laser tattoo removal. RESULTS: Two patients developed transient immunoreactivity that presented as regional lymphadenopathy after laser tattoo removal of professional black and blue-green tattoos. These reactions resolved without any complications. CONCLUSIONS: Tattoo pigments released or modified by laser therapy may trigger transient immunoreactivity in susceptible individuals.