Ayurvedic management of age-related macular degeneration – A Case Report

Abstract

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is a progressive degenerative retinal disease in which there is a gradual progressive decrease in central vision. ARMD is the most common cause of blindness in developed countries mainly affecting the elderly, with a high prevalence among the age group more than 60 years.  There are two forms of macular degeneration, dry/nonexudative and wet/exudative, and these differ in fundal findings and treatment options. Dry macular degeneration is due to accumulation of drusen between the retinal pigment epithelium and Bruch’s membrane and eventually progresses to geographic atrophy. The exudative or wet form   represents   the   most   severe form with rapid progression despite therapeutic progress.  It is characterized by the development of choroidal neovascularization, crossing the retinal pigment epithelium and developing below the macular area.  A diagnosed case of Dry ARMD with complaints of diminished vision in both eyes approached Salakyatantra department of Government Ayurveda Medical College, Tripunithura, and after in-patient treatment significant improvement in vision obtained. Ayurveda treatment seems to have contributed substantially to improved vision and it has an important role in the prevention and further progression of the disease. So, it is necessary to report this case for identification of treatment strategies for the prevention of progression of ARMD.