An Ayurvedic insight into managing Multi-Drug-Resistant Tinea w.s.r. to Dadru - A Case Series

Abstract

Skin, the largest organ of human body acts as a shield for external agent. But in today’s modern world, a remarkable increase in the prevalence of skin is witnessed with dermatophytes infection alone accounting for 20-25% of world population. Dermatophytes are fungi that invade and multiply within keratinised tissues (skin, hair and nails) causing infection. Inappropriate, inadequate and overuse of tropical antifungal and corticosteroids drugs results in altered clinical presentation with extensive lesions, ultimately giving rise to a condition unresponsive to conventional treatment and thereby developing resistance. Multi-drug-resistant tinea, over past few years, has become a major health concern, especially in India. To address this need, Ayurveda is looked upon as a safe and effective treatment option. Dadru Kustha, on the basis of clinical presentation shows significant similarities with Tinea infection. In this context, 5 patients of multi-drug-resistant tinea infection with extensive lesions and history of reoccurrence were selected from the OPD of Kaya Chikitsa. Classical Virechan Karma with Trivrit Avaleha followed by Shaman Aushadhi (Aragvadhadi Kashayam, Gandhak Rasayan and Panchatiktaghrita Guggulu Vati), External application (Siddharthak Snan Churna and Brihat Marichyadi Taila with Tankan Churna) and Lifestyle modification were prescribed. After completion of treatment, significant improvement was noted in Subjective criteria {Kandu (itching), Raga (erythema), Pidika (eruptions) & Utsanna Mandala (elevated circular lesion)} and pictorial representation with no signs of reoccurrence during the 1-month follow-up. Panchakarma therapy and Samana Aushadhi (both external and internal) along with lifestyle modification provides a safe and effective treatment option for multi-drug-resistance tinea, highlighting the potential of Ayurvedic interventions in dermatology.