Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF VIPADIKA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO PALMOPLANTAR PSORIASIS: A CASE REPORT

*Dr. Suwarna Mahendra Kumar Abgad, Dr. Vipul Kanani

Abstract

Introduction: In Ayurveda, dermatological disorders are described under broad name Kushtha, among which Kṣhudra Kushtha includes Vipadika, characterized by Pani–Pada Sphutana (fissures over palms and soles), Rukshata (dryness), Tivra Vedana (severe pain) and sometimes Manda Kandu (mild itching). It is predominantly a Vata–Kapha disorder involving Twak, Rakta, Mamsa and Lasika. Its clinical picture closely corresponds to palmoplantar psoriasis (PPP), a chronic, noninfectious, immune-mediated dermatosis that is difficult to treat and prone to recurrence. Objective: To evaluate the effect of an Ayurvedic treatment in the management of Vipadika clinically correlated with Palmoplantar psoriasis. Methodology: A 27- year-old patient presented with bilateral palmar itching, dryness, and roughness of the skin, followed by painful fissuring and blackish discoloration of bilateral palms and soles Since 1 year. The condition was clinically diagnosed as Vipadika and correlated with palmoplantar psoriasis based on its clinical manifestations. The patient was managed with an Ayurvedic treatment comprising internal medication and external local applications for 2 months. Results: The patient showed marked improvement in palmar and plantar itching, pain and dryness following 2 months of Ayurvedic management, along with improvement in the associated clinical features. Conclusion: The present case suggests that Ayurvedic management of Vipadika offers a safe and effective approach to palmoplantar psoriasis, addressing both symptom relief and recurrence prevention. This case adds to the evidence supporting Vata–Kapha Shamana and Ropana (healing) therapy in chronic palmoplantar dermatitis.

Keywords: Palmoplantar psoriasis, Vipadika, Kṣhudra Kushtha, Ayurveda, Hyperkeratosis.