CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE AYURVEDIC UNDERSTANDING OF LEUKEMIA: A CONCEPTUAL REVIEW

Background: Leukemia is a heterogeneous group of hematological malignancies characterized by clonal proliferation of abnormal hematopoietic cells, resulting in progressive impairment of normal hematopoiesis. Although leukemia is a well-defined entity in contemporary medicine, it is not described as a distinct disease entity in the classical Ayurvedic Samhitas. However, several Ayurvedic concepts such as Raktapradoshaja Vikara, Raktaja Arbuda, Arbuda, Rakta Dhatu Dushti, Majja Dhatu Vikriti and disorders such as Raktapitta, Pandu, Pleeha, Gulma and Angamarda provide conceptual frameworks for understanding different clinical and pathological dimensions of leukemia. Aim: To critically analyse leukemia through Ayurvedic concepts of Nidana, Dosha, Dushya, Agni, Srotas and Samprapti, and to explore the possible conceptual relationship between leukemia and Raktapradoshaja Vikara and Raktaja Arbuda. Materials and Methods: Classical Ayurvedic concepts related to Rakta, Arbuda, Raktapradoshaja Vikara and Majja Dhatu were reviewed along with contemporary literature concerning leukemia and published studies exploring its Ayurvedic interpretation. Discussion: The pathogenesis of leukemia may be conceptually approached through disturbance of Rakta Dhatu and Majja Dhatu, Agni Dushti and Srotodushti. Raktaja Arbuda may provide a conceptual analogy for malignant proliferation involving the hematopoietic system; however, published analyses emphasize that Raktaja Arbuda is not identical to modern leukemia.[2,3] The Ayurvedic framework therefore appears more appropriate for conceptual understanding and individualized supportive care rather than direct disease nomenclature. Conclusion: Leukemia cannot be equated with a single classical Ayurvedic disease. Nevertheless, the concepts of Raktapradoshaja Vikara, Raktaja Arbuda, Rakta Dhatu Dushti and Majja Dhatu involvement provide useful avenues for conceptual research. Future studies should focus on developing evidence-based integrative approaches while maintaining modern hematological diagnosis and appropriate oncological treatment.