A CASE REPORT ON AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC PHOTODERMATITIS

Abstract

Chronic photodermatitis is an inflammatory skin disorder characterized by an abnormal reaction to sunlight, commonly presenting with erythema, pruritus, burning sensation, scaling, hyperpigmentation, and lichenification over sun-exposed areas. This case report describes a 60-year-old female with chronic facial photodermatitis of five years' duration. In Ayurvedic terms, the condition was assessed as Twak Vikara with predominance of Pitta-Rakta Dushti and associated Kapha and Vata involvement. The patient received a Shamana Chikitsa regimen comprising Panchatikta Ghrita, Panch Nimbadi Choorna, Haridrakhand, Khadirarishta, Aragwadhadi Mahakashaya, Arogyavardhini Vati, and Aller-N capsules. After two months of follow-up, itching and burning were markedly reduced, while erythema, hyperpigmentation, scaling, and lichenification were reduced; sleep also improved. This case suggests a favourable outcome with an Ayurvedic approach; larger controlled studies are required.