From the FDA Drug Label
Skin and skin structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and/or Streptococcus pyogenes The treatment guidelines for tattoo skin infections are to use antibiotics such as cephalexin, which is effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes 1.
- Key points:
- Culture and susceptibility tests should be initiated prior to and during therapy.
- Renal function studies should be performed when indicated.
- To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria, cephalexin should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria.
From the Research
Treatment of tattoo skin infections requires prompt medical attention, typically involving a combination of oral antibiotics and proper wound care, with the goal of minimizing morbidity, mortality, and improving quality of life. For mild to moderate infections, first-line antibiotics include cephalexin, dicloxacillin, or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for 7-10 days, as suggested by 2. However, the most recent and highest quality study, 3, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the few important diagnostic groups and urgencies in tattoo complications, with acute conditions dominated by bacterial infections needing antibiotic treatment.
Key Considerations
- Bacterial infections during the healing phase of tattoos should be treated with oral antibiotics, with a list of first-line antibiotics proposed by 2.
- Severe infections with affected general condition require intravenous antibiotic treatment as early as possible to prevent septic shock and death, as highlighted by 2 and 3.
- Chronic allergic reactions in red tattoos are mostly nonresponsive to topical corticoid and best treated with dermatome shaving, while laser treatment can boost the allergy with worsening and a potential risk of anaphylaxis, as noted by 3.
Wound Care and Prevention
- Wound care is essential and includes gentle cleansing with mild soap and water, applying an antibiotic ointment, and covering with a sterile, non-stick dressing, as generally recommended for wound care.
- Warm compresses can help improve circulation and healing, and patients should avoid scratching the area, keep it dry between cleanings, and elevate the affected body part when possible to reduce swelling.
- Proper sterilization techniques during tattooing and adherence to aftercare instructions are crucial in preventing tattoo skin infections, as emphasized by 4 and 5.
Treatment Approach
- The treatment approach should prioritize the use of oral antibiotics for mild to moderate infections, with consideration of intravenous antibiotics for severe cases, and proper wound care to minimize the risk of complications and promote healing, as suggested by the most recent and highest quality study, 3.