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Updated: Feb 2, 2026
06:37
Skin Tattooing As A Novel Approach For DNA Vaccine Delivery
Published on: October 18, 2012
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Outbreak of Tattoo-associated Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Skin Infections
Isabel Griffin1, Ann Schmitz2,3, Christine Oliver4
1Epidemiology, Disease Control, and Immunization Services, Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County, Tallahassee.
Summary
Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections in tattoo recipients were linked to gray wash tattoo ink and tap water. Whole-genome sequencing identified Mycobacterium abscessus and Mycobacterium fortuitum as causative agents in this tattoo-associated outbreak.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Microbiology
Background:
- A cluster of nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections emerged among individuals who received tattoos.
- The Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County was alerted by a dermatologist regarding three suspected cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the source and causative agents of an NTM outbreak linked to a tattoo studio.
- To identify risk factors associated with the NTM infections.
Main Methods:
- Interviews and testing were conducted with tattoo studio clients reporting rashes.
- Mycobacterium isolates underwent culture, identification, and characterization.
- Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analyses were employed to determine phylogenetic relationships.
Main Results:
- Thirty-eight outbreak-associated cases were identified among 226 interviewed clients.
- Clients using gray tattoo ink were significantly more likely to develop a rash.
- Multiple NTM species, including Mycobacterium abscessus, Mycobacterium fortuitum, and Mycobacterium chelonae, were isolated from clinical and environmental samples.
Conclusions:
- Whole-genome sequencing and SNP analyses pinpointed gray wash tattoo ink and tap water as the sources of NTM infections.
- The study highlights the potential risks associated with contaminated tattoo materials and practices.
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