MANAGEMENT OF SWITRA WITH VISHRAWAN KARMA - A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Background: Vitiligo is an acquired idiopathic hypomelanotic disorder which present as localized or widespread areas of depigmentation. It affects approximately 1% of world population. Patient present with milky or chalky white amelanotic macules usually with well demarcated margins. Widespread prejudices, ignorance, taboos, lack of scientific appraisal, and confusion of vitiligo with leprosy all make it a social embarrassment for the patients. This disorder does not result in restriction of capacity to work or expectancy of life, but it causes cosmetic disfigurement leading to psychological trauma to the patients. This condition is compared with Switra in Ayurveda. Vishrawan karma (Needling) has been mentioned in Ayurveda for treatment of switra. In present context it can be correlated with needling. Aims & objective: To evaluate Ayurvedic principles and the efficacy of needling (Vistravan karma) in switra and to provide better and effective treatment for management of switra. Material and methods: Patient was diagnosed with switra based on clinical sign and symptoms and Vishrawan Karma was performed at interval of 15 days for 3 months. 6 sitting was done. Results: It was observed that patient recovered faster after vishrawan karma. There was marked repigmentation on depigmented patch along with reduction in size and number of vitiligo patch. Conclusion: Present case report showed that Vishrawan Karma is effective in the management of vitiligo.