Severe Adverse Events Related to Tattooing: An Retrospective Analysis of 11 Years

BACKGROUND: The incidence of tattoos has been increased markedly during the last 20 years. AIMS: To analyze the patient files for severe adverse medical reactions related to tattooing. SETTINGS: Academic Teaching Hospital in South-East Germany. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective investigation from March 2001 to May 2012. RESULTS: The incidence of severe adverse medical reactions has been estimated as 0.02%. Infectious and non-infectious severe reactions have been observed. The consequences were medical drug therapies and surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Tattooing may be associated with severe adverse medical reactions with significant morbidity. Regulations, education and at least hygienic controls are tools to increase consumer safety.