Fanconi syndrome is a disorder of the kidneys which can be either inherited or acquired and is usually seen mostly in children. The common symptoms of this condition include increased frequency of urine, frequent thirst, dehydration, bone deformities, and impaired growth. This condition is mainly associated with the accumulation of cystine in renal tubule cells -- a condition known as cystinosis -- which is the most common cause of this condition. Fanconi syndrome is also associated with other metabolic disorders such as Wilson disease, tyrosinemia, and glycogen storage diseases. The modern management of this condition includes symptomatic treatment; maintaining of fluid and electrolyte balance, and offering adequate dietary advice and genetic counseling.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for Fanconi syndrome is aimed at treating the main cause of the condition -- cystinosis -- by using herbal medicines to prevent the blockage of renal tubules. Other associated metabolic disorders have to be treated separately. Treatment also needs to be given for associated symptoms of the condition such as impaired growth and bone deformities. Herbal medicines which have a strong diuretic action and also prevent accumulation of protein within the kidneys form the mainstay of treatment of this condition. Other herbal medicines which have a specific protective and corrective action on the kidneys are also used in this condition for prolonged periods, so as to preserve kidney function and to prevent long term abnormalities and complications in the affected individual.
Treatment is thus aimed at preserving kidney tissue, optimizing the blood circulation in the kidneys, maintaining and preserving function of the filtering mechanism within the kidneys, and ensuring a good urine output. Protein breakdown and accumulation within the kidneys needs to be controlled. Herbal medicines are also given to ensure the proper growth of bones and connective tissue within the body.
Individuals affected with Fanconi syndrome require Ayurvedic herbal treatment for about 9 to12 months in order to bring about a significant improvement in the symptoms and provided long-term correction within the kidneys and in the entire body. Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the management and treatment of Fanconi syndrome.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
