Published Paper Details:

The dynamic nature of diseases requires flexible approaches to health and treatment, especially for emerging conditions like amoebic meningitis caused by Naegleria fowleri.This article explores the Ayurvedic concept of Anuktha vyadhi (unspecified diseases), which accommodates the evolution of new diseases through principles derived from texts such as Charaka Samhita and Susrutha Samhita. Ayurvedic frameworks like Adidesha and Arthapatti1 enable the adaptation of classical principles to modern pathologies. Amoebic meningitis, or Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)2 , is a rare and fatal brain infection often contracted through exposure to warm freshwater contaminated with N. fowleri. Its rapid progression from fever and meningismus to seizures and coma, coupled with a high mortality rate, underscores the urgency of exploring both modern and traditional approaches to understanding and managing this disease. Modern diagnostic techniques, such as CSF analysis and PCR, alongside antifungal therapies, are highlighted for their clinical relevance. The article draws a conceptual parallel between Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis and Ayurvedic conditions like Shleepada and Mastishka jwara, emphasizing similarities in symptoms, causative factors and pathogenesis. Ayurvedic principles such as the involvement of aggravated Kapha and Pitta, explain the inflammation and obstruction observed in PAM. Additionally, the Shleepada nidana in Ayurvedic texts closely aligns with the environmental risk factors for PAM, such as exposure to stagnant or contaminated water. Treatment considerations in Ayurveda, including Sira vyadha and Roga-Rogi pareeksha (disease and patient examination), are discussed as potential complementary approaches. By integrating insights from Ayurveda with modern medical practices, this article advocates for a holistic understanding of rare and emerging diseases like amoebic meningitis, bridging ancient wisdom and contemporary science.