Role of Ayurveda in pediatric IgA nephropathy: A clinical experience

Abstract: Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy (IgAN) is recognized globally as the most common type of primary glomerulonephritis and stands as a significant cause of end-stage renal disease across all age groups. The incidence of IgA nephropathy varies from 4.0 to 35.5% worldwide. Episodic visible hematuria, sub-nephrotic proteinuria, normal to severe impairment of renal function, and hypertension are its hallmarks. Corticosteroids, immunosuppressive medications, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers, and dietary changes are used to manage IgAN, which may slow the progress of the disease to some extent. An optimized adjuvant and holistic regimen for IgAN is required to preserve long-term kidney function. Considering IgAN as a complication triggered by imbalances within the Mutravaha srotas (~urinary tract) and Medovaha srotas (~channels carrying fat tissue), a 13-year-old male patient diagnosed with IgAN, with complaints of recurrent episodes of gross hematuria and abdominal pain, was managed with an Ayurvedic treatment regimen for 14 months. The treatment resulted in increased estimated glomerular filtration rate, with resolution of proteinuria and hematuria. The patient remained stable without recurrence of similar episodes during the two-month follow-up. This case study demonstrates specific clinical outcomes and the potential role of Ayurveda in effectively managing IgAN progression and its complications.