Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF KACHA: IMMATURE SENILE CATARACT

*Dr. Ritu Salyal, Dr. Preeti Pahwa and Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal

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Abstract

Immature senile cataract, commonly referred to as Kacha, represents an early stage of cataract in the aging population. Characterized by partial lens opacification, Kacha leads to gradual visual impairment, which can significantly affect the quality of life if left untreated. It is one of the leading causes of blindness in the world now a days. The pathophysiology of kacha (immature senile cataract) involves oxidative stress, protein aggregation, and altered lens metabolism, all contributing to the gradual opacification. While risk factors such as aging, ultraviolet exposure, diabetes, and genetic predisposition play a role, the exact mechanisms remain poorly understood. As such, early detection, close monitoring must be observed in the management of senile cataracts. Clinically the symptoms of Kacha can be correlated with Immature Senile Cataract. In modern science surgery is the only treatment available in cataract. Though much research has been and is being done to find an alternative to surgery in the conventional system of medicine, no satisfactory option has been found to date. In Ayurveda our Acharyas have mentioned various procedures like anjanas, aschyotana, pariseka, tarpana to delay kacha or arrest the procedure of opacification which can be useful in senile immature cataract. This paper reviews classical Ayurveda texts and their commentaries to understand senile cataracts and Kacha better.

Keywords: Kacha, Cataract, Lens, Drishti, Patala, Timira, Linganasha.