Differentiation of Amavata Types as per Madhava Nidana and Madhukosha with Correlation to Radiological Findings in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Amavata a disease described in Ayurveda since the period of Madhavakara, is classified under Vata-Kaphaja disorders and bears close resemblance to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in modern medicine. RA is a chronic, systemic inflammatory polyarthritis that primarily affects small diarthrodial joints of the hands and feet in a symmetrical pattern. Madhavakara described the Lakshana of Amavata based on Dosha dominance. Modern imaging tools play an important role in the diagnosis as well as in assessment of disease progression. The joints in the hands, wrists and feet have smaller bones and thinner cartilage than the larger joints; therefore, early radiographic changes are better visualized in these joints. Baseline radiographs and periodic follow-up imaging are recommended for assessment of joint disease progression. These findings can be mapped to the Lakshanas of different types of Amavata and correlated with radiological findings of RA for better diagnosis, prognosis and treatment planning.