Abstract

A CASE STUDY ON THE AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF PRIMARY OPTIC ATROPHY

Dr. Preeti Pahwa* and Dr. Sheweta Kotwal

Abstract

The term Optic Atrophy (also termed Optic Neuropathy) is usually applied to the condition of the disc following degeneration of the optic nerve. It is the end stage of a variety of causes of damage to the optic nerve in any part of their course from the retina to the lateral geniculate body, which leads to degeneration not only on the proximal (cerebral) side but also on the distal (ocular) side. A 24 years old female patient having history of gradual vision loss since 1 year attended OPD of Netra Vibhag, Shalakya Tantra department, Patanjali Ayurvedic Hospital in Haridwar. On examination, her corrected visual acuity was right eye HM +ve and left eye CF ½ meter. Fundus examination reveals pale optic disc with diffuse pallor (+) of both eye (RE >LE). Intra-ocular pressure was in normal range. She had a history of moderate hydrocephalus due to acqueductal stenosis. After thorough examination diagnosis of Primary optic atrophy (Both eyes) was confirmed. All the facts about prognosis were explained to patient and her relative and with their consent it was decided to give Ayurvedic treatment as trial which included Marsh Nasya, Ksheerdhoom Nasya, Anjanam and kshlanam, Tharpana & shirodhara etc. with other ayurvedic procedures mentioned below. After above treatment in two sittings for 6 months, patient’s corrected visual acuity improved up to right eye – 1/60 and left eye – 6/36(Partial). Due to this visual acuity improvement, patient regained her confidence & hope. From this case study, it can be concluded that Ayurvedic regime and unique therapies can be proved fruitful in such diseases where there is no treatment modalitity mentioned in other pathies.

Keywords: Netra-Tarpan, Mahatriphaladi, Optic Atrophy, Optic Neuropathy, Jeevantyadi ghrita, Anjanam, kshlanam, Triphala Kwath, Ksheerdhoom Nasya.