Mycobacterium Abscessus Cutaneous Infection Secondary to Tattooing: A Case Report

Abstract

Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABC) comprises a group of rapidly growing, nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) capable of causing a wide spectrum of infections. MABC is classified into three subspecies namely abscessus, bolletii, and massiliense, each with distinct antibiotic resistance patterns. Over the past decade, cases of NTM inoculation during tattooing have increased, with Mycobacterium abscessus being the most commonly implicated NTM pathogen. Herein we describe the case of a 37-year-old woman who presented with erythematous papules over a tattoo on her right upper chest 15 days after getting a tattoo. Importantly, our report highlights the challenges in diagnosing Mycobacterium abscessus infections due to its multidrug resistance and discusses the available treatment options. Furthermore, our case also highlights the need for stricter regulation and enforcement of sterile practices during the production and use of tattoo inks, as well as the sterilization of tattooing equipment, to help reduce the risk of infection.