Abstract

“UNDERSTANDING PSORIASIS VIS-A-VIS KUSHTA”

Dr. Shalini Katoch* and Dr. Niranjan Rao

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Abstract

Psoriasis is a common, genetically determined, inflammatory skin disorder of unknown cause, which, in its most usual form, is characterized by well demarcated, raised, erythematous scaly plaques particularly affecting extensor surface, scalp, and nails and is usually relapsing and remitting. The psychosomatic and socioeconomic impact of this disease is remarkable. Most of the skin disorders are mentioned in Ayurvedic classics under the broad classification of Kushta. Different presentations of Psoriasis can be depicting Sidhma, Eka Kushta, Kitibha or Mandala Kushta or in combination of any of these. Change in the presenting features over time is also seen depending upon factors like chronicity, exposure to any environmental triggering factor etc. In this review article an effort has been made to understand the concept of Psoriasis with different types of Kushtha.

Keywords: Psoriasis, Kushta, Ekakushta, Mandala, Kitibha, Sidhma.