The act of getting a tattoo is a form of self-expression that's accompanied by several risks. Even if you visit a reputable tattoo parlor with clean conditions, the tattoo ink that enters your skin can carry health risks. Tattoo dyes, especially red dyes, can cause disease transmission, skin irritation and the possibility of complications during MRI exams.
Skin Problems
A granuloma is a small clump of dead cells resulting from injury or infection, such as an infection from tattoo ink. Granulomas are most common in the lungs; however, any tissue may experience granulomas. Fortunately, granulomas are localized, meaning they will only affect the area of your skin around the tattoo.
Granulomas are just one skin problem associated with tattoo ink. According to the Centers for Disease Control, infection from tattoo ink may also result in keloids, or an overgrowth of scar tissue.
Hepatitis B
It is possible for you to contract a disease, such as hepatitis B, from tattoo ink. Even if your tattoo artist uses a sterile needle to administer your tattoo, the ink may be contaminated with the blood of a previous customer. Hepatitis B is a liver disease that ranges from mild illness over a few weeks to a chronic infection that can lead to long-term illness. Hepatitis B is a contagious disease that can be transmitted if you come into contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person. In the worst cases, hepatitis can result in death. You can prevent hepatitis B by getting vaccinated.
MRI Complications
Tattoo ink may cause complications in MRI exams because of an adverse reaction with the magnetic resonance. The ink can cause a swelling or burning in the skin around the tattoo during the test. Tattoo ink can also blur the MRI image. A blurred image may result in a misdiagnosis by a medical professional who is examining your MRI results.
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