Rohl A, Christopher KL, Ifantides C. Two cases of pen ink scleral tattoos and a brief review of the literature.
Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2021;
21:101015. [PMID:
33537509 PMCID:
PMC7840847 DOI:
10.1016/j.ajoc.2021.101015]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose
Scleral tattooing, also known as episcleral, subconjunctival, or simply eyeball tattooing, is a relatively new form of extreme body modification that first emerged in 2007. There are few reports of the management of these tattoos in the medical literature, and we aim to increase the body of knowledge surrounding this rare and potentially dangerous practice.
Observations
We present two new cases of improvised scleral tattooing, both performed in prison using pen ink and insulin needles, and both with minimal complications and managed with topical medications. A brief review of the literature is included which details the dangers of scleral tattooing.
Conclusions and importance
We discuss management of complications for this new, previously unreported method of scleral tattooing using pen ink. Ophthalmologists should be aware of the presentation, possible complications, and management of these cases.
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