Ayurveda in the management of infant hyperlipidemia: A case report

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Genetics

Background:

• Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome (FCS) is a rare genetic disorder causing severe hypertriglyceridemia in children, often leading to recurrent pancreatitis.
• Conventional lipid-lowering therapies show limited efficacy in managing FCS.
• Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing this rare condition.

Observation:

• A 6-month-old infant diagnosed with FCS presented with severe hypertriglyceridemia (Triglycerides 6400 mg%, Cholesterol 552 mg%) and recurrent pancreatitis.
• The infant was treated with a combination of Ayurvedic herbal medicines targeting imbalances in 'Rasa' and 'Rakta' tissues.
• Treatment involved frequent use of Laghoo Sootshekhar, Arogyavardhini, Tinospora cordifolia, Cyprus rotundus, Aegle marmelos, Berberis aristata, Vettiveria zizanioides, and Triphala.

Findings:

• Within six months, serum cholesterol levels normalized.
• Over three years of continuous Ayurvedic treatment, serum triglycerides decreased to below 2000 mg%.
• The patient experienced a significant reduction in recurrent episodes of abdominal colic and vomiting.
• The Ayurvedic treatment was found to be safe, effective, and cost-effective.

Implications:

• Ayurvedic medicine presents a viable and effective therapeutic option for managing congenital hyperlipidemia, specifically FCS, in pediatric patients.
• This case highlights the potential of traditional medicine systems in addressing rare genetic metabolic disorders.
• Further research into Ayurvedic interventions for rare pediatric lipid disorders is warranted to explore broader applications and mechanisms of action.