Tattoo-associated uveitis (TAGU) is a rare condition that presents with uveitis and granulomatous lesions confined to tattooed skin. Although tattoos are becoming increasingly common, TAGU remains underdiagnosed, likely because of its unclear etiology, potentially involving sarcoidosis triggered by pigments or ink hypersensitivity. Diagnosis requires the exclusion of systemic sarcoidosis and other inflammatory disorders. An early 1930s female patient with multiple tattoos developed bilateral anterior uveitis and cutaneous granulomas. A comprehensive evaluation, including skin biopsies and imaging, excluded systemic sarcoidosis. Histology showed foreign-body granulomas. Initial treatment with systemic corticosteroids provided temporary relief; however, recurrent symptoms necessitated methotrexate as a steroid-sparing agent. After one year, the patient achieved resolution of the skin lesions and sustained ocular inflammation control. TAGU is an underrecognized condition in tattooed individuals with intraocular inflammation. Methotrexate is an effective treatment that offers long-term control of ocular and dermatological symptoms after careful exclusion of systemic causes.
Correia et al. (Tue,) studied this question.
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