An Observational Cross-sectional Study of Darun Rasavaha Strotodushti in Aamvata as a Hetu of Pranvaha Strotodushti with Special Reference to Interstitial Lung Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Background: Aamvata, described in Ayurvedic classics as a disease of Rasavaha Strotas, often manifests with systemic features. Classical texts such as Charaka Samhita describe that a Daruna (severe) involvement of any strotas can be a causative factor (hetu) for Pranvaha Strotodushti. Interstitial lung disease (ILD), a non-infectious parenchymal lung pathology, is a known complication in patients with long-standing Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Aim: To study the association between Darun Rasavaha Strotodushti in Aamvata as a hetu of Pranvaha Strotodushti, with special reference to ILD in RA. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 40 diagnosed RA patients presenting with clinical features of Pranvaha Strotodushti. Patients were assessed through subjective criteria (Sandhishotha, Sandhishoola, morning stiffness, dyspnea on exertion, non-productive cough) and objective parameters (Rheumatoid Factor, HRCT chest). Correlation between Ayurvedic and modern parameters was established. Results: A significant proportion of RA patients with Aamvata exhibited Pranvaha Strotodushti features. HRCT findings revealed honeycombing and UIP patterns suggestive of ILD in longstanding RA patients. This supports the Ayurvedic dictum that Darun Dushti of Rasavaha Strotas predisposes to Pranvaha Strotodushti. Conclusion: The study demonstrates an association between Rasavaha Strotodushti in Aamvata and Pranvaha Strotodushti manifested as ILD in RA. Ayurvedic preventive and management approaches in Aamvata may help reduce ILD risk and other systemic complications.