Repigmentation in vitiligo universalis after starting dialysis—could they be related?

Abstract

Abstract Vitiligo is an acquired disorder of pigmentation characterized by the development of white macules and patches on the skin. Although multiple theories have been proposed to understand the underlying pathophysiology behind the pigment loss, the exact etiology remains unknown. Vitiligo universalis is an extremely rare variant that causes nearly complete depigmentation of the entire body surface. Treatment is challenging, especially when pigment loss is generalized and diffuse. We present a unique case of a patient with vitiligo universalis that had remained untreated and stable for >20 years until she developed repigmentation shortly after initiation of dialysis.