Siddha Therapeutic Regimen in the Management of Paediatric Impetigo: A Case Report

Abstract

Bacterial skin infection is a common diagnosis among children with skin problems, accounting for 17% of all clinic visits. The most common is impetigo, which is highly contagious. There are two classic forms of impetigo non-bullous and bullous. Non-bullous impetigo accounts for more than 70% of cases. Lesions typically begin on the face or on extremities and may spread to other parts of the body. According to siddha literature, impetigo resembles Perusirangu (itch with wide vesiculations) due to derangement in Pitham (infectious, erythema) and Kabham (pustule formation). Modern treatment involves antibiotics and topical antiseptics, but recurrence and antibiotic resistance remain challenges. This case study demonstrates the efficacy of siddha intervention in a paediatric patient with impetigo who shows non-responsiveness to a prior 10-day course of empiric antibiotics. Beyond symptomatic relief, this treatment aims to neutralize the deranged thodam through detoxification, blood purification, wound healing, thereby ensuring complete recovery and preventing recurrence. The therapeutic intervention comprised a structured siddha regimen, including internal medicines like Arugan kattai kudineer and external applications like Mathan Thylam. Significant clinical improvement was observed within 7 days and complete clearance of lesions was achieved by 21 days of treatment. This study suggests that Siddha management serves as a potent, safe and sustainable alternative to conventional antibiotics, providing a comprehensive model for managing paediatric dermatological  conditions without  recurrence or drug resistance.