Ayurvedic Management of Granulomatous Mastitis: A Case Report
Author : Dr. Shishir Suryakant Paratane
Abstract :
Granulomatous mastitis is an uncommon, benign yet chronically progressive inflammatory disorder of the breast, characterized by recurrent abscess formation, sinus tract development, induration, pain, and frequent recurrence. The condition often poses a diagnostic dilemma due to its close resemblance to carcinoma breast and tubercular mastitis. Conventional management strategies including antibiotics, repeated incision and drainage, corticosteroids, immunosuppressive therapy, and surgical excision frequently result in incomplete resolution, recurrence, and significant adverse effects.
From an Ayurvedic standpoint, granulomatous mastitis can be comprehensively understood under the spectrum of Stana Sopha, StanaVidradhi, DushtaVrana, and NadiVrana, wherein vitiated Kapha and Pitta Dosha along with Rakta and Mamsa Dhatu Dushti play a pivotal role. Impaired Agni, presence of Ama, obstruction of Rasavaha and Raktavaha Srotas, and chronic Srotorodha lead to suppurative pathology in breast tissue.
This case report presents a 44-year-old female diagnosed with left-sided granulomatous mastitis, unresponsive to antibiotics and anti-tubercular therapy and complicated by hepatic intolerance. The patient was managed exclusively with Ayurvedic principles including Shamana Chikitsa and Jalaukavacharana (leech therapy) over a period of four months. Complete clinical resolution was achieved and radiological confirmation through MRI demonstrated absence of abscess or active granulomatous inflammation.
This case highlights the efficacy of classical Ayurvedic treatment principles in managing chronic inflammatory breast disorders and emphasizes the role of Rakta-Kapha-Pitta Shamana, Sopha-Vidradhi Chikitsa, and RaktaMokshana in preventing recurrence and restoring tissue homeostasis.
Keywords :
Granulomatous Mastitis, StanaVidradhi, Stana Sopha, Jalaukavacharana, DushtaVrana, Ayurveda.
