Effect of Ayurveda interventions in the treatment of Kitibha Kushta (psoriasis) in a pediatric patient: A case report

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system, has a systematic approach in managing skin disorders, including Kitibha Kushta , a condition resembling psoriasis in contemporary medicine. This case report highlights the effectiveness of Ayurveda treatment in a pediatric case of Kitibha Kushta . PATIENT INFORMATION: A 4-year-old male child presented to the outpatient department with complaints of dryness of skin from the age of 1 year and dry, blackish-brown skin lesions associated with burning sensation and itching over the bilateral hands, legs, and face for the past 12 months. The condition was diagnosed as Kitibha Kushta based on the signs and symptoms. THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS: The patient was treated with an Ayurvedic external and internal treatment modalities for 20 weeks, comprising Rasa Manikya (60 mg) with Shuddha Gandhaka (125 mg), Gandhaka Rasayana (125 mg), Arogyavardhini Vati (125 mg), and Patolakaturohinyadi Kashaya (5 mL), all administered twice daily after meals with lukewarm water, along with external application of Dasanga Lepa over affected areas. Clinical assessment was done during pretreatment and posttreatment. RESULTS: After 1 month of treatment, marked clinical improvement was observed from baseline to posttreatment follow-up. Shyavam (brownish discoloration), Kinakhara Sparsha (rough skin lesions), and Parushatwa (hardness of lesions) regressed from severe (score 3) at baseline to complete resolution (score 0) at follow-up. Kandu (itching) reduced from very severe (score 3) to absent (score 0). The mean Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index showed a 96.1% improvement (from 26 to 1), reflecting a significant enhancement in quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the effectiveness of Ayurvedic management, comprising both internal and external therapies, in the treatment of Kitibha Kuṣṭha . A marked reduction in clinical symptoms was observed, which was accompanied by an improvement in the child’s quality of life, as evidenced by increased social interaction and participation in age-appropriate activities. No adverse events were reported during the treatment period or throughout follow-up.