AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ALKAPTONURIA – A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Alkaptonuria is a rare, autosomal-recessive disorder of phenylalanine/ tyrosine metabolism due to congenital deficiency of the enzyme homogentisic acid oxidase characterized by triad of dark-colored urine, ochronosis and ochronotic arthropathy. The development of ochronotic arthropathy is the result of deposition of homogentisic acid (HGA) polymer within hyaline articular cartilage. Ochranosis primarily occurs in large joints of the body in-cluding spine thus producing loss of flexibility and ankylosis of the thoracic and lumbar segments. Here, a case of Alkaptonuria with ochronotic arthropathy affecting spine and knee is studied. It can be considered as Sahaja vata vyadhi (genetic disorder). Till now there is no pharmacological treatment which cures the disease. The Ayurvedic treatment was given to improve the quality of life of the patient and mainly to reduce the pain and stiffness of spine which affects day to day life. Internal medications for 3 months and IP Treatment for 11 days was given initially. In this condition continuous treatment is required so intermittent medica-tion is prescribed for one year and better results were obtained. Here the drugs for metabolic correction, Srota sodana (clears blocks in metabolic pathways), diuretic drugs for increasing excretion of homogentisic acid and Vatahara drugs which prevents degeneration are given.