Abstract

AN AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO THE MANAGEMENT OF NONCIRRHOTIC ALCOHOLIC STEATOHEPATITIS WITH HEPATOCELLULAR JAUNDICE: A CASE REPORT

Dr. B. Sanjuktha Shree*, Dr. Mahesh Sharma M., Dr. Srinivasa S.

Abstract

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a progressive hepatic disorder caused by chronic alcohol consumption and ranges from steatosis to steatohepatitis and cirrhosis. In Ayurveda, alcoholinduced hepatocellular dysfunction can be correlated with Kosthashrita Kamala resulting from aggravated Pitta and Rakta dushti. Early-stage non-cirrhotic alcoholic steatohepatitis presents an opportunity for therapeutic reversal when managed appropriately. A 37-year-old male with a 12-year history of chronic alcohol intake, presented with yellowish discoloration of the sclera and urine, fatigue, anorexia, and nausea. The patient was managed with an Ayurvedic protocol of classical Virechana Karma followed by Shamana Aushada Prayoga. Post-treatment evaluation showed complete resolution of icterus and normalization of urine color with marked improvement in Liver function test. Ultrasonography demonstrated reduction in liver size from 18.4 cm to 16.0 cm with persistent mild fatty infiltration and no progression to cirrhosis. This case demonstrates Ayurvedic management, combined with appropriate dietary regulation, can produce significant clinical, biochemical, and radiological improvement in non-cirrhotic alcoholinduced liver disease. Early intervention at the steatohepatitis stage may prevent progression to irreversible hepatic damage. Further controlled studies are required to substantiate the findings.

Keywords: Koshtashrita kamala, alcoholic steatohepatitis, Virechana, yakrit vikara.