Identification and Categorization of Pathogens in Doshaja Mutrakrucchra vis-à-vis Urinary Tract Infections

Abstract

Background: Mutrakrucchra is a disease characterized by difficulty in voiding of urine. The Lakshana of Mutrakrucchra mentioned in Ayurveda literature appears similar to the clinical features of urinary tract infections caused by microbes. Hence, this study was conducted to bridge Ayurveda classical knowledge to modern microbiology understanding to characterize microorganisms causing different types of Mutrakrucchra, which can be a torch bearer for future clinical approach in cases of Mutrakrucchra. Objectives: To identify the microorganisms in urine among the patients of Ekadoshaja Mutrakrucchra. To differentiate and classify the microorganisms present in the Mutra among Vataja, Pittaja, Kaphaja Mutrakrucchra. Methodology: This was a cross – sectional study which included 44 subjects. Subject’s urine sample was collected and subjected for microscopic examination, culture and incubated for 24-48 hours. After incubation, the growth in agar media was observed for growth characteristics and later the colonies was subjected for Gram staining, Microscopic observation and Biochemical tests for identification of the microorganisms. Vataja, Pittaja and Kaphaja Mutrakrucchra was correlated with that of organisms found on growth. Results: Fisher’s exact test demonstrated a statistically significant association between Vataja Mutrakrucchra and E.coli (p-value of 0.003), as well as between Pittaja Mutrakrucchra and Klebsiella (p-value of 0.028), indicating statistically significant correlation. Conclusion: Pittaja Mutrakrucchra is associated with Klebsiella, whereas E.coli and Enterococci are also found in significant number of subjects. Vataja Mutrakrucchra is associated with E.coli and as Kaphaja Mutrakrucchra cases observed were very few, no conclusion could be drawn.