Understanding of Dubayla al-Kabid (Liver Abscess) in Perspective of Unani System of Medicine

The jigar (liver) plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of health as a seat of Quwat-e-Tabaiya (vegetative faculty) and centre for Istehalah (metabolic processes), and Akhlat (humour production). A condition known as Dubayla al-Kabid refers to a localised liver abscess caused by unresolved Warm-e-Jigar Harr (hot liver inflammation). It arises due to internal factors like dominance of Damawī (sanguine) or Ṣafrāwī Akhlat (bilious humours) and external causes like trauma. When inflammation turns purulent, can form Dubayla (abscess). The term Dubayla is used for large abscesses and Khurāj for smaller ones, predominantly affecting the right lobe. Clinical symptoms include fever, chills, upper right abdominal pain, indigestion, night sweats, and Qaṣr al-Ṣawt (respiratory distress). The prognosis worsens when multiple abscesses form in the porta hepatis (Bab-al-Kabid) or when pus spreads to adjacent organs like the Ri’atayn (lungs) or Ghishā’-i-Qalb (pericardium). Unani medicine emphasises early recognition and drainage to prevent complications such as necrosis or systemic infection. This comprehensive classical Unani literature, combined with contemporary clinical data, underscores the enduring relevance and adaptability of traditional healing in managing liver abscesses. Key words: Dubayla al-Kabid, Hararat-e-Ghareeziyah, liver abscess, Unani medicine, Warm-e-Jigar