Publication:

Post-dengue encephalitic sequelae in a child: significant functional recovery with ayurvedic intervention-a case report

Dengue encephalitis is a rare and severe neurological complication of dengue viral infection, often resulting in debilitating long-term deficits characterized by viral neuro-invasion, cerebral edema, and in severe cases herniation. As mentioned in ayurvedic texts, Jwara (fever) can lead to Raktapitta (Hemorrhagic conditions) and can further cause dhatukshaya (depletion of dhatus) leading to shosha (emaciation). We present a case of a 6-year-old boy with marked physical and neuropsychological impairments after dengue encephalitis at age 4. Despite initial emergency care, the patient exhibited significant motor weakness, speech and cognitive delays and functional dependence. Following comprehensive Ayurvedic therapy on the treatment principle of santarpana (restoring strength, nourishment and tissue integrity) and brimhana (nourishing therapy), he demonstrated remarkable recovery in over 9 months with restoration of motor skills, cognition and social functioning. This case highlights the potential benefits of a comprehensive ayurvedic rehabilitative approach in chronic post-dengue neurological sequelae.