Journal of
eISSN: 2574-9943
Submit manuscript...
Case Report Volume 10 Issue 1
Dual diagnosis of melasma and vitiligo: coexistence of opposing pigmentary disorders
María Andrea Torres Leal, María Camila Arredondo Daza, Nataly Portilla Maya, Johan Conquett
Received: February 28, 2026 | Published: March 23, 2026
Citation: Leal MAT, Daza MCA, Maya NP, et al. Dual diagnosis of melasma and vitiligo: coexistence of opposing pigmentary disorders. J Dermat Cosmetol. 2026;10(1):31-33. DOI: 10.15406/jdc.2026.10.00316
Abstract
Melasma and vitiligo are acquired pigmentary disorders with seemingly opposite pathophysiological mechanisms. While melasma is characterized by increased melanin production with preservation of functional melanocytes, vitiligo corresponds to acquired depigmentation secondary to the functional or structural loss of these cells. The coexistence of both entities represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. We report the case of a 48-year-old woman with concomitant facial melasma and non-segmental vitiligo. Diagnosis was established through clinical examination and Wood’s lamp evaluation, which highlighted depigmented lesions characteristic of vitiligo alongside reticulated hyperpigmented patches consistent with melasma. This case highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges that arise when two pigmentary disorders with opposing pathophysiological mechanisms occur simultaneously.
Keywords: cutaneous hyperpigmentation, melanocytes, melasma, nonsegmental vitiligo, skin pigmentation disorders
©2026 Leal, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.