Two weeks after getting a tattoo, a 26-year-old man experienced a high fever of 41-42 degrees Celsius. Initially believing it was the flu, he took fever-reducing medication, but his condition did not improve. He then sought care at Thuy Nguyen Hospital in Hai Phong.

Doctors at Thuy Nguyen Hospital suspected sepsis and transferred him to Hanoi Heart Hospital. Test results at Hanoi Heart Hospital confirmed a diagnosis of infective endocarditis, also known as Osler's disease. Bacteria entering his body during the tattooing process caused the condition.

Associate Professor Doctor Nguyen Sinh Hien, Director of Hanoi Heart Hospital, stated on 20/12 that the hospital admits around 10-12 young patients annually with Osler's disease linked to tattooing. This condition involves bacteria attacking heart valves, causing severe damage. If not detected and treated quickly, it can lead to consequences.

Treating infective endocarditis typically involves several weeks of strong antibiotic treatment. The disease carries a risk of recurrence, and in many cases, patients require heart valve repair or replacement surgery.

In this patient's case, the large tattoo and numerous needle punctures created an entry point for bacteria to enter his bloodstream. These bacteria subsequently spread to other organs and attacked his heart valves. After two days of active treatment, the patient's fever subsided. However, he must continue antibiotic treatment for at least 4 weeks before undergoing heart valve replacement surgery.

Doctors warn that getting tattoos at establishments not ensuring sterile conditions poses health risks, particularly blood infections. They emphasize the importance of careful consideration before getting a tattoo. Individuals should choose reputable establishments that adhere to sterilization protocols to minimize potential risks.

Le Nga