Panchakarma in autoimmune pancreatitis: A single-case study

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• Ayurvedic Medicine

Background:

• Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a rare systemic fibro-inflammatory disorder with suspected autoimmune pathogenesis, typically responding only to steroid therapy.
• Ayurveda describes Grahani Dosha with clinical features resembling AIP, attributing it to Mandagni (hypofunctioning of Agni).
• Panchakarma, an Ayurvedic detoxification therapy, is believed to enhance Agni and is indicated for Grahani Dosha, with Virechana and Basti being key treatments.

Observation:

• A 30-year-old female diagnosed with AIP and multisystem involvement presented with elevated Immunoglobulin G (IgG), HbA1c, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and BMI.
• The patient experienced limited relief with conventional medications including anticholinergic agents, antacids, levothyroxine, multivitamins, and antihistamines.
• The patient underwent classical Virechana (therapeutic purgation) and Madhutailika Basti (medicated enema) as Ayurvedic interventions.

Findings:

• Following Panchakarma therapy, significant reductions were observed in the patient's IgG, HbA1c, serum cholesterol, serum triglyceride, LDL, and BMI levels.
• The therapeutic interventions demonstrated a positive impact on the patient's overall health status and associated metabolic parameters.
• These findings suggest a potential therapeutic role for Virechana and Basti in managing AIP and related comorbidities.

Implications:

• Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapies, specifically Virechana and Basti, may offer a complementary or alternative treatment strategy for autoimmune pancreatitis.
• This case report highlights the potential of integrating Ayurvedic principles into managing complex systemic disorders like AIP.
• Further research is warranted to explore the efficacy and mechanisms of Ayurvedic interventions in autoimmune pancreatitis and associated metabolic derangements.