Ayurvedic treatment approach for Primary Nephrotic Syndrome - A Case Study

Background: Up to 20% of end-stage renal disease and 12% of the causes of chronic kidney diseases are related to primary nephrotic syndrome. Nephrotic syndrome is one such burning problem which effects the school going child due to exaggerated immune response like auto-immunity following a viral infection. The incidence is 2 to 7 per 1,00,000 children per year. Corticosteroids are frequently needed by patients to achieve remission, however many patients either relapse after remission or do not react to them. The better alternative is, however far from established. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of a multimodal Ayurvedic treatment for nephrotic syndrome patient. Methods: A 10-year-old boy, diagnosed case of primary nephrotic syndrome, with complaint of swelling of face, proteinurea and recurrent respiratory tract infection. Based on the patient's observed indications and symptoms, a treatment plan was developed. The protocol includes Ksheerpaka of herbal drugs powder (Yashtimadhu, Shatavari, Guduchi, Gokshura, Musta, Punarnava, Mandukparni and Vidari) along with Chandanasava, Punarnavasava, Gokshuradi Guggulu and Arogyavardhini Vati, Chandraprabha Vati orally, with some dietary modifications. Results: The treatment approach demonstrated success in reducing proteinuria and facial swelling. During the follow-up period, no unfavourable impacts were observed.