Ayurvedic Management of Unilateral Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis: A Case Report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70066/jahm.v13i9.1780Keywords:
Abhishyanda, Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis, Kriyakalpa, spring catarrh, case reportAbstract
Background: Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a chronic allergic ocular disease of childhood, especially in hot and dry climates. In Ayurveda, VKC is discussed in relation to Kaphaja Abhishyanda, a disorder characterized by the aggravation of Kapha and Pitta Dosha resulting in inflammation, congestion, and excessive ocular secretion. Case: A 13-year-old girl presented with unilateral VKC (left eye) with recurrent symptoms despite prior topical corticosteroid use. Baseline findings included conjunctival congestion and superficial corneal vascularization; left-eye visual acuity (LE VA) was LogMAR 1.30. Interventions/Outcomes: A multimodal Ayurvedic regimen was delivered in three inpatient courses over 15 months, consisting of internal formulations, topical eye drops, and ophthalmic procedures. Symptoms of redness, itching, and photophobia improved; corneal vascularization regressed; LE VA LogMAR 1.30→0.47. The patient remained steroid-free at 6-month follow-up. No adverse events were recorded. Conclusion: This case signifies that Ayurvedic interventions can address VKC symptoms along with minimizing corticosteroid dependency. Further clinical trials are necessary to establish Ayurvedic treatments as standard therapy for allergic conjunctivitis.
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