Ayurvedic Management of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in a 4-Year-Old Child: A Case Report

Abstract

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune hematological disorder characterized by
isolated thrombocytopenia, often presenting with mucocutaneous bleeding.[1,5] Conventional management
includes corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulins, and immunosuppressive agents, which may cause
adverse effects in pediatric populations.[5] Ayurveda describes bleeding disorders under Raktapitta, wherein
Pitta vitiation leads to Rakta Dhatu derangement and vessel fragility.[3] This case report highlights the
successful Ayurvedic management of a 4-year-old male child diagnosed with ITP, who presented with
petechiae, gum bleeding, and severe thrombocytopenia (11,000/cmm). The treatment protocol included
Raktapitta Chikitsa, Rasayana, and immune-modulatory Ayurvedic formulations, such as Plateup syrup,
Kumar Kalyan Rasa, Suvarna Vasant Malti Rasa, and Arvindasava. Significant clinical improvement
was observed within 4 weeks, with platelet counts normalizing to 1.98 lakh/cmm by the 2nd month and
maintaining at 2.29 lakh/cmm at 3 months without relapse. This case suggests that Ayurvedic therapy may
serve as a supportive and potentially beneficial approach in pediatric ITP. Controlled studies are needed to
validate these findings.