SICKLE CELL ANEMIA : A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disease causing high morbidity and mortality. Quality of life hampers due to its chronic nature and painful crisis in children. Permanent cure is not possible as of now, except successful bone marrow transplantation. Considering symptomatology and nature of disease, it can be compared with Pandu, under the heading of Adibala Pavrutta Vyadhi. The chronicity indicates Asadhya nature of the disease. If some medication improves the quality of life and maintain the health of patient, then such medications and efforts become helpful for society. Material and Methods: A 13 year old male patient diagnosed to be suffering with sickle cell anemia with symptoms of severe pain in joints, limbs and abdomen, weakness, anorexia and weight loss approached the OPD, department of Kaumarbhritya, S G Patel Ayurveda Hospital, Anand. Observations and Results: Mother and father are sickle cell trait (HbAS). Patient has tried modern medicine with no benefit in pain crisis. So they came here and treated with Ayurvedic medications for 6 months, during which he had not experienced any pain crises. 1.20% of decrease in HbS (sickle hemoglobin) was found. Weight is also improved from 37 kg to 43 kg. Child is now playing cricket and kabbadi without any sickle cell crisis. Conclusion: So this case study is intended to explore the pathophysiology and management of sickle cell anemia from Ayurvedic per view and to explore the probable mode of action of medications.