Ayurvedic approach for management of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: A case report

Abstract

Idiopathic thrombocytopenia is a disorder that leads to easy or excessive bleeding results from unusually low levels of platelets. Treatment modalities for Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) are available in modern science, namely corticosteroids, etc., have a lot of side effects, and include risky surgical procedures such as splenectomy. However, Ayurveda approach gives an understanding of its causes, pathogenesis, and treatment planning. Here, a case of chronic ITP diagnosed as per western medicine is being presented, which was treated with Ayurveda modalities. The patient was diagnosed with Raktapitta (~bleeding/hemorrhagic disorder) and was treated with oral medicines mentioned in Raktapitta chikitsa along with medicated food for two months. The patient's condition was assessed based on the symptoms of Raktapitta like Atyartava (~excessive menstrual bleeding), along with standard objective parameters such as platelets count, WHO bleeding scale, and ultrasonography. Significant improvement was noted in this case in both classical signs and symptoms (Atyartava and Bhrama) as well as in objective parameters. This case gives a focus on the prognosis and treatment approach of ITP through Ayurveda point of view.