Rational diagnostic advance of Kushtha (integumentary diseases) by a preliminary arbitrary grading system based on Ayurveda fundamental principles

Abstract

Background: In Ayurveda all the skin diseases are described under Kushtha (integumentary diseases), Kshudra roga (~minor ailments) and few systemic disorders. As per ancient scholars of Ayurveda innumerable verities of Kushtha are occurred by the vitiation of seven fold of pathogenic substance. However, for diagnosis purpose, knowledge regarding predominant Dosha (~humor) is very much essential. As the predominant vitiating pathogenic factors depict the specific verity of Kushtha and the treatment principle is also equipped on the basis of Dosha. Aims and objective: On this background the present study was carried out to diagnose the particular verity of Kushtha described by Ayurveda classics with the help of Doshik predominance and to structure a standard grading system based on classical features of Kustha. Materials and Method: Literary resources were critically analyzed in this study. All the data concerning features of Kushtha mentioned in classical Ayurveda texts were collected and visualize features were documented in the form of photography obtained from the patients to diagnose the disease accurately. Result and Conclusion: Different types of Doshaja Kushtha features were evaluated by the preliminary approach of arbitrary grading system and the model was supported with the help of clinical photographic features. This is the first preliminary approach to diagnose as well as assess the severity of the diseases kustha based on Ayurveda fundamental principles.