Id reaction and allergic contact dermatitis post-picosecond laser tattoo removal: A case report

Abstract

The novel picosecond lasers have emerged as a mainstay device in laser tattoo removal alongside Q-switch lasers, considered the gold standard in the field. Here, we present a 45-year-old female who developed a severe reaction to both her treated and untreated tattoos after two picosecond laser treatments and subsequent widespread eczematous eruption. Skin biopsies revealed findings consistent with hypersensitivity to exogenous red pigment. The clinicopathologic findings were consistent with an id reaction (autoeczematization) associated with allergic contact dermatitis to tattoo pigment. This case report highlights the potential for tattoo hypersensitivity following picosecond laser treatment and the dilemma associated with tattoo removal in sensitized patients. Additional therapeutic approaches are needed to provide patients with a safe means of tattoo removal while mitigating the risk of hypersensitivity reactions.