Published Paper Details:

Background: Kustha is a chronic dermatological disorder described in Ayurveda as a Chirakari Vyadhi involving vitiation of Tridosha with predominant affliction of Tvak, Rakta, Mamsa, and Lasika. A key factor in its Samprapti is Kleda, the fluid functional component of the body, which when vitiated (Vikrita Kleda), accumulates in Jaliya Dhatus and leads to clinical manifestations such as Kandu, Srava, Vivarnata, and chronic inflammation. Although classical texts emphasize this role of Kleda, its clinical assessment has largely remained subjective and insufficiently correlated with objective markers. Aim: To establish Kusthagata Vikrita Kleda as a definable etiopathological entity in Kustha and to explore its correlation with laboratory parameters. Materials and Methods: An observational clinical study was conducted on 100 patients (20 each of Prameha, Sthoulya, Sotha, Kustha, and Vrana). Assessment of Vikrita Kleda was done using classical Lakshanas supported by laboratory investigations including TLC, ESR, and CRP. Presence of Vikrita Kleda was considered when four or more classical features were observed. Results: Kustha patients showed prominent Kleda Lakshanas, with Kandu in 80%, Daha in 50%, Anga Vivarnata in 35%, and Srava sahita Kandu in 30% of cases. Laboratory evaluation revealed elevated ESR in 70% and CRP in 55% of Kustha patients, indicating persistent inflammatory activity and Ama involvement, while 20% showed raised TLC suggestive of immune-mediated pathology. Conclusion: The study provides objective clinical and laboratory evidence that Kusthagata Vikrita Kleda is a measurable and significant etiopathological factor in Kustha.