A Conceptual Continuum Model of Suppurative Otitis Media in the Ayurvedic Framework of Karnaroga
Published 2025-11-10
Keywords
- Karnaroga; Suppurative Otitis Media; Karnapaka; Karnasrava; Putikarna; Krimikarna; Integrative Otology; Disease Continuum Model
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Abstract
Background: Suppurative otitis media represents a progressive inflammatory disorder that may evolve from acute middle ear infection to chronic suppuration and destructive complications. Classical Ayurvedic literature describes several ear disorders under Karnaroga, including Karnapaka, Karnasrava, Putikarna, and Krimikarna, whose clinical features suggest possible stage-wise progression.
Objective: To critically evaluate whether selected Ayurvedic descriptions of Karnaroga represent a conceptual continuum corresponding to the modern progression of suppurative otitis media.
Methods: A structured textual analytical review of primary Ayurvedic sources, including Charak Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya, was conducted. Disease descriptions were examined for etiological factors, Doshika involvement, symptomatology, discharge characteristics, and indicators of structural damage. Extracted features were comparatively analyzed and mapped against contemporary understanding of acute and chronic suppurative otitis media and related complications. A theoretical continuum model was constructed based on escalating inflammatory intensity and tissue involvement.
Results: The analysis demonstrated a progressive pattern from inflammatory maturation (Karnapaka) to purulent discharge (Karnasrava), chronic fetid suppuration (Putikarna), and advanced destructive pathology (Krimikarna), reflecting increasing severity and pathological complexity.
Conclusion: Ayurvedic descriptions of Karnaroga may represent a structured inflammatory–destructive continuum paralleling modern suppurative otitis media progression, warranting further interdisciplinary validation.