DECODING SCLERODERMA THROUGH THE AYURVEDIC LENS: A PANCHAKARMA-BASED CLINICAL EXPLORATION

Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disorder characterized by progressive skin thickening, pigmentation, tissue fibrosis and musculoskeletal manifestations. In Ayurveda, its clinical features may be conceptually correlated with Gambhīra Vātarakta based on the involvement of Vāta and Rakta Doṣa and the progressive manifestation of pathology in deeper tissues. This case report presents the Ayurvedic management of a 55-year-old female with a six-month history of progressive skin tightness and blackish discoloration, restricted mouth opening, joint pain, morning stiffness, heartburn and ocular dryness. Histopathological examination revealed features consistent with scleroderma. The treatment protocol included Sarvāṅga Mahāmañjiṣṭhādi Kaṣāya Seka, Mahāmañjiṣṭhādi Kṣīra Seka, Anuvāsana Basti with Balāgudūcyādi Taila, Mahāmañjiṣṭhādi Kaṣāya Basti followed by Mahāmañjiṣṭhādi Kṣīra Basti, and topical Mukhalepa. Following treatment, improvement was observed in skin tightness, joint pain and stiffness, and facial skin discoloration. The therapeutic approach was based on Rakta-prasādana, Srotoshodhana, Vāta-Pitta Śamana and Bṛṃhaṇa principles. This case highlights the potential role of an integrated Ayurvedic treatment approach in the symptomatic management of scleroderma. However, the findings are limited to a single case, and further systematic clinical studies are required to establish its efficacy and safety.