Management of Ekakushta (childhood psoriasis) through Ayurveda multimodal approach: A case report

Abstract

Kushta Roga is a broad term used in Ayurveda to refer to various skin ailments. Ekakushta is a type of Kshudra Kushta caused by the Vata and Kapha Dosha. Its symptoms are quite similar to those of psoriasis, including Aswedanam (no sweating/dryness), Mahavastum (affecting a large region), and Matsyashakalopamam (scaling like fish skin). Corticosteroids are usually prescribed topically to treat psoriasis, although this only offers temporary relief. Ayurveda has effective treatment of Ekakushta using a variety of interventions; nevertheless, because of the disease’s complicated etiology, a multimodal approach is necessary. A 15-year-old girl with a moderate build has been complaining for the last 4–5 years about reddish-patchy skin rashes that cause pain, scaling, and itching all over her body. She also reported recurrent relapses. The symptoms pointed to the involvement of the Vata and Kapha Dosha, suggesting Ekakushta (psoriasis). Due to the disease’s tendency toward remission and recurrence, we undertook purgative therapy (Virechana Karma) for the purification of vitiated Dosha. The patient was administered Shamana medicines for Dosha pacification and a topical application following purifying therapy. A complete remission of symptoms was noted after Ayurvedic therapy, as documented by pre- and post-therapy photos of lesions. Furthermore, there were notable declines in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score (32.6 to 0), Adolescent Psoriasis Quality of life Psychosocial Impact (42 to 8 at the end of treatment), and Adolescent Psoriasis Quality of life Physical Symptoms and Treatment (17 to 3) after 6 months of treatment with no documented adverse drug reactions during treatment. Ekakushta (psoriasis) is extremely difficult to treat; nonetheless, a comprehensive pathogenesis assessment, appropriate purification, and pacifying therapy work well.