Piercings--what the physician needs to know?
Kluger, N.; Koljonen, V.
Duodecim; Laaketieteellinen Aikakauskirja 128(13): 1363-1370
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-7183 PMID: 22880371 Document Number: 658851
Body piercing (BP) is defined as penetration of jewellery through the skin. Along with tattooing BPs are the most common body modifications. Complications related to piercing are numerous. They can be acute or chronic, infectious or non infectious and local or systemic complications. Acute infections constitute the most important complications and occur independently of the piercing site. Special attention should be brought on oral piercings, as they are frequent and responsible for numerous complications. A non-judgmental approach is recommended, when a pierced patient seeks medical help for a piercing complication or any other health issue.