HAIR DYE INDUCED CHRONIC ECZEMA (KARAPPAN) MANAGED WITH SIDDHA TREATMENT - A CASE STUDY

M. K. Sangeetha*, K. Rajakumar, M. R. Srinivasan, M. Chithra, I. Nithyamala and S. Dinesh

ABSTRACT

Background: Atopic dermatitis, also known as atopic eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by pruritic, erythematous, and scaly skin lesions often localized to the flexural surfaces of the body. A genetic defect in the filaggrin protein is thought to cause atopic dermatitis by disrupting the epidermis. This disruption, in turn, results in contact between immune cells in the dermis and antigens from the external environment leading to intense itching, scratching, and inflammation. Scratching can then lead to further disruption and inflammation of the epidermal skin barrier; this has been described as the itch scratch cycle. According to the Siddha system of medicine, it is Karappan, in which Mukkutram are involved, with dominance of Kapham. The management available in current mainstream medicine is unsatisfactory; Various Siddha treatments have been in use for these manifestations. Case Presentation: A 63 years old male patient presented with complaints of itching in the scalp, both Cheeks, both ear lobe and lateral aspect of the neck, sometimes in the forehead since 6 months. Management & Outcome: Patient was visited Dr. Rajkumar’s Siddha clinic, chromepet, chennai, and put on Siddha treatment for 48 days. This case highlights the importance of Siddha treatment in providing fast improvement in skin disease. What benefits the patient could not get in the last six months have been achieved by him in just 48 days.

Keywords: Atopic dermatitis, chronic eczema, Karappan, Karappan pandam, Siddha treatment.