Wells Syndrome-Like Histologic Pattern Caused by a Permanent Tattoo

Abstract

Tattoo reactions have become more common as tattoos gain visibility and popularity worldwide. A variety of inflammatory patterns have been described in association with tattoos-more commonly fibrosing, granulomatous, lichenoid, pseudolymphomatous, and spongiotic patterns. To date, there has been one case report of a Wells syndrome-like inflammatory pattern associated with a temporary Henna tattoo. Here we present the first case of a permanent tattoo with resulting flame figures, histologically resembling Wells syndrome. We believe this uncommon histologic pattern might be of interest for pathologists to be aware of.