Retinoblastoma is a rare form of cancer which occurs in early childhood and usually affects the eye, especially the retina. Common symptoms include pain in the eyes, diminished vision, an opaque white appearance of the eyes, and a visible bulge in the eye. This tumour can spread through the optic nerve to the brain and other parts of the body, especially the bones. The pressure of the enlarging tumor usually displaces the retina, thereby causing gradual blindness. The modern management of this condition includes a combination of laser surgery, cryotherapy, radiation and chemotherapy.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for retinoblastoma is aimed at treating the primary tumour as well as its spread to other parts of the body, especially the bones. Ayurvedic herbal medicines which have a specific antitumor action as well as a specific affinity for the eyes and the retina are used in high doses and for prolonged periods in the management of this condition. Medicines are also given in order to preserve eyesight to the maximum extent possible; however, the best way to preserve eyesight and to prevent further damage is to bring about remission of the tumour at the earliest.
Immunomodulation is an important part of treatment in which Ayurvedic herbal immunomodulatory agents are used in combination with the above-mentioned medicines, so as to bring about remission of the tumour at the earliest, reduce treatment time, prevent its spread, and improve the overall outcome of the tumour. While treatment for this tumour is mainly in the form of oral medication, it can also be supplemented with local therapy in the form of eye drops and the application of medicated oils, ointments, and pastes in and around the eyes. Local therapy can help in reducing symptoms quickly and reducing the overall treatment time.
Most children affected with this tumour require Ayurvedic herbal treatment for periods ranging from nine to eighteen months in order to obtain significant benefit from treatment. Ayurvedic treatment can definitely improve the chances for a remission or cure from this condition.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com
