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image of Tattoo Ink Exposure and Its Potential Link with Lymphoma and Skin Cancer: A Narrative Review of New Evidence

Abstract

Introduction

Tattooing, which is becoming more and more widespread in the world, makes it necessary to care about the long-term health consequences of tattoo ink exposure and its potential association with skin and lymphatic carcinogenesis.

Methods

A narrative review was performed by searching peer-reviewed articles in PubMed written up to the year 2025. The search words were “tattoo ink,” “skin cancer,” “lymphoma,” “tattoo-associated malignancy,” “carcinogenic pigments,” “polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs),” “heavy metals in tattoo inks,” and “nanoparticle migration.” Papers were chosen for their relevance to the composition, migration of pigments, toxicological mechanisms, and documented associations with cancer.

Results

Tattoo inks may contain substances such as PAHs, azo dyes, titanium dioxide, and heavy metals. It is possible for these particles to deteriorate with UV illumination and migrate to lymph nodes, causing chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Imaging demonstrates the nanoparticle localisation within lymphatic organs, whereas toxicological studies associate genotoxicity and immune damage with components of the pigment. There are a few clinical case reports and a few population-based studies indicating a potential relationship with lymphoma and skin malignancies.

Discussion

While causality has not been proven, supportive evidence across toxicologic and clinical spheres suggests a biologically plausible risk for cancer. Limitations of this study are heterogeneity in design and ink, as well as the absence of long-term cohort data. Regulatory and labelling requirements are also not well synchronized across the world.

Conclusion

At the chemical and biological level, exposure to tattoo ink can increase the risk of carcinogenesis. Additional research and more stringent regulations are needed to establish and mitigate potential long-term health risks.

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2026-01-22
2026-02-26

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/content/journals/chddt/10.2174/011871529X409881251124100953
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Tattoo Ink Exposure and Its Potential Link with Lymphoma and Skin Cancer: A Narrative Review of New Evidence
Bentham Science Publishers ; https://doi.org/10.2174/011871529X409881251124100953
/content/journals/chddt/10.2174/011871529X409881251124100953
/content/journals/chddt/10.2174/011871529X409881251124100953
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  • Article Type:     Review Article
Keywords: lymphoma ; Tattoo ink ; skin neoplasm ; genotoxicity ; Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) ; carcinogenicity

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