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Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical imaging technique based on a phenomenon of nuclear physics discovered in the 1930s, in which matter exposed to magnetic fields and radio waves was found to emit radio signals. In 1970, a physician and researcher named Raymond Damadian noticed that malignant (cancerous) tissue gave off different signals than normal body tissue. He applied for a patent for the first MRI scanning device in clinical use by the early 1980s. The early MRI...

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MRI-Induced Neurosensory Events in Decorative Black Tattoos: Study by Advanced Experimental Methods.

Kasper Køhler Alsing¹, Ole Olsen², Christian Bender Koch³

¹The Tattoo Clinic, Department of Dermatology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg, Copenhagen, Denmark.

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|November 6, 2023

Summary

Adverse reactions in tattooed skin during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are rare. This study reveals carbon black in tattoos can cause stinging sensations due to radiofrequency induction, not just magnetic particles.

Keywords:

Iron oxide MRI safety Magnet Permanent makeup Tattoo reaction

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Area of Science:

Radiology
Dermatology
Materials Science

Background:

Adverse reactions in tattooed skin during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are uncommon but documented.
Previous cases suggest reactions are due to magnetic pigment particles causing pain, erythema, and edema.
The exact pathophysiology of these reactions remains unclear, with simple thermal heating ruled out.

Observation:

A 35-year-old woman reported recurrent stinging sensations in black tattoos immediately upon MRI initiation.
Handheld magnets and MRI re-evaluation reproduced painful sensations in her tattooed skin.
Chemical analysis and electron microscopy of skin samples identified carbon black, not iron-based pigments.

Findings:

MRI-induced tattoo reactions are not solely caused by magnetic contaminants.
Carbon black, a common tattoo pigment, can trigger adverse reactions.
A novel mechanism involving radiofrequency induction of surface currents in carbon particles is hypothesized.

Implications:

This finding suggests distinct subgroups of MRI-induced tattoo reactions may exist.
The study highlights the need to consider non-magnetic tattoo components in adverse events.
Further research into radiofrequency interactions with tattoo pigments is warranted to ensure patient safety during MRI.