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Pseudoepitheliomatous Epidermal Hyperplasia in Tattoos

Report of Three Cases

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Abstract

Cutaneous reactions to tattoos are not uncommon and various histologic patterns have been reported, including lichenoid, granulomatous, eczematous, and pseudolymphomatous reactions. Such patterns may develop with highly variable delay after the tattooing procedure. We report three strikingly similar cases of a fast-occurring, tattoo-induced, cutaneous reaction strictly restricted to the red parts of the tattoos in two cases and displaying an unusual histologic pattern, i.e. pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia. Clinical differential diagnosis of this rare condition includes viral warts, keratoacanthoma, and verrucous carcinoma. It may be difficult to rule out the last two diagnoses and making the diagnosis usually requires full excision of the lesion, comprehensive histologic analysis, and careful follow-up.

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Acknowledgments

No sources of funding were used to assist in the preparation of this case report. The authors have no conflicts of interest that are directly relevant to the content of this case report.

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Correspondence to Nicolas Kluger.

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Kluger, N., Durand, L., Minier-Thoumin, C. et al. Pseudoepitheliomatous Epidermal Hyperplasia in Tattoos. Am J Clin Dermatol 9, 337–340 (2008). https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200809050-00009

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