Ayurvedic Management of Eka-Kushtha (Ichthyosis Vulgaris)

Abstract

Eka-Kushtha is classified under Kshudra Kushtha in Ayurveda and is predominantly characterized by Vata-Kapha vitiation. Its cardinal features include Aswedana (absence of sweating), Mahavastu (extensive lesions), and Matsya Shakalopama (fish scale-like appearance). Clinically, these features closely resemble ichthyosis vulgaris. In the present case, a 14-year-old male with dry, scaly, and hyperkeratotic skin lesions and a baseline Ichthyosis Area Severity Index (IASI) score of 14.4 was managed according to classical Ayurvedic principles . The treatment protocol comprised repeated Virechana Karma following Snehapana with Panchatikta Ghrita, along with Shamana Chikitsa, Lepana, and Rasayana therapy. Following treatment, the patient demonstrated marked improvement in scaling, pruritus, and the overall appearance of the skin, with the IASI score decreasing from 14.4 to 4.4. The staged Ayurvedic therapeutic approach appeared to restore Dosha-Dushya equilibrium, resulting in sustained clinical improvement without any reported adverse effects. This case suggests that a comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment regimen may serve as a safe and effective therapeutic option for the management of ichthyosis vulgaris and other chronic disorders characterized by abnormal keratinization.