A CRITICAL REVIEW ON ETIOPATHOGENESIS AND MANAGEMENT OF PANDU ROGA IN THE LIGHT OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Abstract

Background: Pandu Roga is described in classical Ayurveda as a disorder characterized predominantly by Panduta (pallor), Daurbalya (weakness), Shrama (fatigue), and Hridspandana. It is mainly considered a Rasa–Rakta Dhatu Pradoshaja Vikara with involvement of Agnimandya and vitiation of Pitta Dosha. In contemporary medicine, Iron Deficiency Anemia is the most prevalent nutritional deficiency disorder worldwide and presents with similar clinical manifestations such as pallor, fatigue, and reduced hemoglobin levels. The close resemblance between Pandu Roga and Iron Deficiency Anemia suggests a strong conceptual and clinical correlation. Aim: To critically analyze the etiopathogenesis and management of Pandu Roga in correlation with Iron Deficiency Anemia. Objectives: To review classical references regarding Nidana, Samprapti, and Lakshana of Pandu Roga. To understand the pathogenesis of Iron Deficiency Anemia in modern medicine. To establish conceptual parallels between Pandu Roga and Iron Deficiency Anemia. To evaluate Ayurvedic principles of management including Nidana Parivarjana, Shodhana, and Shamana Chikitsa. Materials and Methods: This study is a critical narrative review based on classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, along with contemporary medical literature related to Iron Deficiency Anemia. Relevant references were collected, analyzed, and interpreted to understand the etiopathogenesis and therapeutic principles from both perspectives. Discussion: According to Ayurveda, Pandu Roga originates primarily due to Agnimandya, leading to improper formation of Rasa Dhatu, which subsequently affects Rakta Dhatu Poshana. Vitiated Pitta Dosha along with impaired Dhatu Agni results in qualitative and quantitative deficiency of Rakta, manifesting as pallor and systemic weakness. In Iron Deficiency Anemia, inadequate dietary iron intake, poor absorption, chronic blood loss, or increased demand leads to reduced hemoglobin synthesis and impaired oxygen transport. The Ayurvedic approach emphasizes correction of Agni, purification through Virechana in suitable patients, and administration of Rakta Vardhaka and Rasayana drugs such as Mandura Kalpa, Punarnava, and Draksha. Dietary regulation and lifestyle modification play a central role in restoring tissue nourishment. Conclusion: Pandu Roga and Iron Deficiency Anemia share significant clinical and pathophysiological similarities. The Ayurvedic understanding of Agnimandya, Rakta Kshaya, and Dhatu Poshana Nyaya provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the disease process. Integrative management focusing on digestive correction, iron-rich diet, and classical formulations offers a holistic and sustainable therapeutic approach.