Nontuberculous Mycobacterium Skin Infections Associated With One Tattoo Studio-Oregon, January-April 2023.

Slocum, Elizabeth; Walton, Madison G; Burns, Siobhan; Rees, Kathleen; Cieslak, Paul R; Liko, Juventila · Clin Infect Dis · 2025

case_series · Level IV

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Abstract

Surgical, cosmetic, and tattooing procedures can lead to nontuberculous mycobacterium skin and soft tissue infections. Eight Oregonians developed Mycobacterium immunogenum infections after receiving tattoos from the same artist. Tattoo ink was likely contaminated by self-prepared diluent. Nontuberculous mycobacteria reportability and surveillance are essential to identify outbreaks amenable to public health intervention.

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