Abstract

LEECH THERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF HERPES ZOSTER – A CASE STUDY

Dr. Yogesh Pandurang Wathore*, Dr. Manjusha S. Kalmegh and Dr. Kalindi Joshi

Abstract

Background: Herpes zoster is an acute viral disease characterized by painful skin rashes along with blisters caused due to reactivation of varicella zoster virus(VZV) within patient’s body. Risk factor for herpes zoster includes old age, poor immune system, and patient receiving biological agent(tumor necrosis factors inhibiting). The administration of best antiviral drugs or steroids or NSAIDS gives temporary suppression of pain without much relief in burning sensation. Due to low immunity further chance of complications like post herpatic neuralgia is there. Signs and symptoms of herpes zoster very much similar to Kaksha. Acharya Sushruta has directly defined Raktamokshan in chikitsa of kaksha especially when pittadosha is aggravated. Aim: Present endeavor was to provide an effective way of management of Herpes Zoster in adult age of 52 years old male by leech application. Materials and Methods: 52 years old patient came to OPD with acute vesicular eruption with complaint of pain and burning sensation since 2 days. After local examination it was diagnosed with herpes zoster and choice of treatment was leech therapy. Consecutively 2 sittings were given. Conclusion: The leech application procedure was found very effective in herpes zoster without any side effects.

Keywords: herpes zoster, kaksha, raktamokshan, jaloukavacharan.