Relapsing Vitiligo After Previous Repigmentation in a Patient with Autoimmune Thyroid Disease: A Case Report

Background: Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterized by melanocyte destruction, resulting in depigmented macules and patches. Although therapeutic interventions may induce repigmentation, disease recurrence remains a clinical challenge. Vitiligo has also been associated with autoimmune thyroid disease. This case report describes recurrent vitiligo following previous repigmentation in a patient with autoimmune thyroid disease. Case Presentation: A 53 year old woman with a history of vitiligo and thyroid dysfunction presented with recurrent depigmented lesions. The initial vitiligo developed in 2024 and was accompanied by symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including palpitations and proptosis. Following treatment of the thyroid disorder and excimer light therapy, the lesions showed substantial repigmentation, and phototherapy was subsequently discontinued. In May 2026, depigmented lesions recurred at previously repigmented sites, particularly the wrists, and new lesions developed at other anatomical sites. The recurrence occurred concurrently with deterioration of thyroid function. Laboratory evaluation demonstrated suppressed thyroid stimulating hormone and elevated free thyroxine levels, accompanied by markedly elevated anti thyroid peroxidase antibody levels. Antithyroid therapy was subsequently restarted. Conclusion: This case demonstrates recurrent vitiligo after previous successful repigmentation, involving both previously affected and new anatomical sites. The clinical pattern supports the concept of disease memory, while the concurrent thyroid dysfunction and elevated thyroid autoantibodies suggest an association with autoimmune thyroid disease. Longitudinal monitoring of both vitiligo activity and thyroid function may be important in patients with recurrent vitiligo and coexisting thyroid disease.