Erythroderma, Alopecia, Anhidrosis, and Vitiligo as Complications of a Red Ink Tattoo: A Case Report

    November 2025 in “ Clinics and Practice ”
    Mateusz K. Mateuszczyk, Magdalena Łyko, Andrzej Bieniek, Joanna Maj, Alina Jankowska‐Konsur
    TLDR Red ink tattoos can cause severe skin reactions and complications, especially in those with autoimmune tendencies.
    This case report describes a severe reaction to a red ink tattoo in a 36-year-old Caucasian male, resulting in erythroderma, alopecia universalis, anhidrosis, and vitiligo. Despite treatments with medications like glucocorticosteroids and cyclosporine, the patient experienced persistent anhidrosis and alopecia, with only partial improvement in vitiligo. Surgical removal of the tattoo fragments led to some skin condition improvements, but normal sweating and pigmentation did not return. Histological examinations indicated a low likelihood of sweat function recovery. The report highlights the need for better regulation of tattoo ink composition and increased awareness of potential complications, especially in individuals with autoimmune predispositions. The use of baricitinib showed promise in stabilizing vitiligo and promoting hair regrowth.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    1 / 1 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

      community Alopecia Areata Question

      in Treatment  2 upvotes 5 years ago
      A user with alopecia totalis, borderline universalis, seeks advice on getting into a Xeljanz trial or appealing insurance for coverage. They experienced significant hair regrowth but are now seeing hair loss again and want to try Xeljanz.

      community No hair, don't care! [24/F] :)

       60 upvotes 10 years ago
      A woman with alopecia universalis shares her positive experience of being bald, finding it freeing and less worrisome. She also discusses her skincare routine using Korean products.

      community Olumiant alternative for Alopecia Areata?

      in Treatment  1 upvotes 2 years ago
      A user with alopecia areata is considering treatment options like injections or Olumiant but is concerned about cost and whether delaying treatment will lead to permanent hair loss. They are seeking alternative treatments that are more affordable for a college student.

      community Hairloss all over body and head

      in Treatment  2 upvotes 1 month ago
      A 25-year-old experiencing hair thinning all over the body and head, despite using minoxidil and having low vitamin D levels, is advised to seek a second opinion from a dermatologist specializing in hair loss. The likely diagnosis is diffuse alopecia areata, which may require treatment with a JAK inhibitor.

      community Aminexil, Nanoxidil, Stemoxydine and Kopexil. Anyone use them?

      in Question  1 upvotes 8 years ago
      Aminexil, nanoxidil, stemoxydine, and kopexil are discussed as alternatives to minoxidil for hair growth, with concerns about dependence. Minoxidil is noted for its effectiveness in transitioning hair growth phases, but dependence is mainly linked to androgenic alopecia.

      community Scalp, eyebrow, eyelash and pubic hair loss.

       7 upvotes 7 years ago
      The user experienced significant hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and pubic area, along with itchy, flaky skin and red patches. They have a history of eczema and dermatitis and suspect that stopping shampoo use and taking Ritalin may have contributed to the issue.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results