Topical Application of Herbal Unani formulation in the chronic Relapsing Dermatophytosis related Erythoderma: A Case Report

Abstract

Tinea corporis is the most prevalent form of dermatophytosis and can clinically present with various altered or atypical forms. One of the altered presentations of chronic dermatophytosis is erythroderma. Determining the underlying cause of erythroderma can be challenging for physicians. Dermatophytosis, a known cause of erythroderma, represents a significant global burden on public health and the economy, especially in endemic areas like India, where there has been a notable rise in treatment-resistant cases. Here, we report a case of drug-resistant tinea corporis presenting to the OPD of RRIUM Srinagar with erythrodermic lesions, a rare and atypical morphology of tinea. Unani medicine, with its extensive range of therapeutic options for Tinea (Qūba), was employed in this case. The patient was treated with Marham-i-Qūba, a Unani formulation. The patient was instructed to apply two fingertip units of the formulation (approximately 1 gram) locally, twice daily, on the affected areas for a duration of 15 days. Weekly subjective assessments were conducted using the Physician Global Assessment (PGA) scale, and photographic assessments were performed for objective evaluation before and after treatment. Additionally, potassium hydroxide (KOH) microscopy of skin scrapings was done pre- and post-treatment. Two follow-up assessments were carried out after treatment to monitor for lesion relapse. The subjective and objective parameters showed remarkable improvement, warranting documentation of this case.