Abstract
Body art and tattoos have become a ubiquitous part of modern culture and the popularity and availability of unregulated temporary henna-based tattoos has increased. The addition of para-phenylenediamine to natural henna makes the tattoo set quicker and gives a darker coloration; however, it is a potent allergen. We describe the case of an 11 year old girl who developed a Type IV delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to a black henna tattoo. This case highlights the importance of public education about potent allergens that may be encountered in products such as henna tattoos.
Highlights
Body adornment by tattooing has been used for thousands of years in human culture
Adverse reactions to henna are extremely rare, life-threatening haemolysis has been reported in individuals with glucose-6-phospate dehydrogenase deficiency [2,3]
Acute life threatening Type I immediate hypersensitivity reactions have been described [10]. Aims to regulate those who pedal black henna tattoos in beach resorts and market squares across the globe are unlikely to be wholly successful due to the peripatetic nature of the trade; many patients are unaware of the complications of PPD exposure until they have returned to their country of origin
Summary
Body adornment by tattooing has been used for thousands of years in human culture. Early tribal and warrior origins have given way to their widespread use in popular culture with musicians, actors and athletes being decorated with tattoos. Henna has been used for centuries in many cultures as a dying agent for hair and body painting. Adverse reactions to henna are extremely rare, life-threatening haemolysis has been reported in individuals with glucose-6-phospate dehydrogenase deficiency [2,3].
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