Ayurveda treatment for granulomatosis with polyangiitis: A case report

Abstract

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) was formerly known as Wegener’s granulomatosis. As its name implies, the disease is associated with a necrotizing granulomatous inflammation with vasculitis of small and medium blood vessels induced by antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA). Here, we present a case of a 42-year-old woman with severe arthralgia associated with fever and obstructive uropathy. Blood investigations revealed a high level of C-ANCA, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and reduced hemoglobin level. She had a history of rheumatic heart disease in the childhood. The patient was treated with Ayurvedic oral drugs for 3 months. After 1 month of follow-up period, the patient showed a significant improvement in presenting symptoms as well as laboratory investigations. There was a significant reduction in swelling and tenderness over both ankle joints. Presently, the patient is stable with Ayurvedic medications. The case study shows a ray of hope toward the management of GPA with holistic Ayurveda medications with satisfactory outcome and contentment of the patient. However, more studies should be observed for definite conclusion.