Depigmentation therapy with Q-switched ruby laser after tanning in vitiligo universalis

Background. In vitiligo universalis, repigmentation therapy is seldom effec tive. Besides, bleaching cream which is often used in depigmentation therap y may lead to several serious complications. Objective. Q-switched (QS) ruby laser can destroy melanosomes in melanocyte s and keratinocytes by selective photothermolysis. Methods. We have attempted to destroy melanocytes by using the QS ruby lase r after tanning in a patient with extensive vitiligo. Results. The patient had excellent results with no evidence of repigmentati on after 1 year. Conclusion. Depigmentation therapy with QS ruby laser after tanning is an e ffective and safe way of removing remnants of normal pigmentation in patien ts with vitiligo universalis.