Infections associated with body modification

Abstract

Although exact statistics are lacking, body modifications for cosmetic purposes are performed in many countries. The commonest forms include tattooing, body piercing, and breast and facial augmentation using implants or injectable fillers. Liposuction and, to a lesser extent, mesotherapy are also practiced in many countries. Infective complications of these procedures include local infections, transmission of bloodborne pathogens (viral hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus), and distant infections such as infective endocarditis. Presence of foreign bodies, long healing time of piercing wounds, and poor compliance with infection control practices of some practitioners all predispose the recipients to infections. Apart from the endogenous microbial flora of the skin and mucosae, atypical mycobacteria, especially the rapid growers, have emerged as some of the most important pathogens in such settings. Outbreaks of infection are commonly reported. We hereby review the current knowledge of the topic with specific focus on infections associated with tattooing, body piercing, breast augmentation, mesotherapy, liposuction, and tissue filler injections. Greater awareness among consumers and health-care professionals, as well as more stringent regulations by the health authorities, is essential to minimize the health risks arising from these procedures.

Efficacy, patient‐reported outcomes and safety profile of ATX‐101 (deoxycholic acid), an injectable drug for the reduction of unwanted submental fat: results from a phase III, randomized, placebo‐controlled study

“…8 However, complications may occur with these procedures, including aesthetic deformity, 11,12 and recovery times of up to 1 year may occur in exceptional cases. 13 In addition, liposuction involves risks of local infection, [14][15][16] transmission of pathogens 16 and ecchymosis and bruising. 17 Long-term sideeffects are also possible, such as contour irregularities caused by skin adherence owing to excessive removal of subcutaneous fat 17,18 and excess skin.…”

Retroperitoneal Fibrosis after Chronic Abscesses of Silicone Fluid Fillers in a Case of Gluteal Augmentation

“…e culprit organisms are variable such as Gram-positive and Gramnegative as well as atypical organisms [15]. Propionibacterium acnes had been detected as well [2].…”

El costo de la belleza: Comunicación de seis casos clínicos con infección por micobacterias atípicas secundario a inyecciones intradérmicas y reacción a un dermoimplante de origen desconocido

“…Las complicaciones tardías incluyen inflamación crónica, granulomas, infecciones por Mycobacterium spp., necrosis, osteomielitis crónica y muerte 7 . A diferencia de las infecciones asociadas al empleo de prótesis, la remoción completa de los materiales inyectables puede no ser posible y requieren de terapias más prolongadas 8 .…”