Importance of detailed case taking in chronic psoriasis: A case report treated with Lac humanum

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by erythema, scaling, plaque formation, and persistent pruritus, often following a relapsing course. It is often associated with musculoskeletal involvement and significant psychosocial stress. Conventional management primarily offers symptomatic palliation and control of flare-ups, with limited impact on long-term disease susceptibility. In homoeopathy, cutaneous manifestations are understood as outward expressions of internal constitutional imbalance rather than isolated local pathology. Therefore, effective management of psoriasis requires individualized constitutional treatment. Case summary: A 56-year-old female presented with chronic plaque psoriasis, polyarthralgia, retrosternal burning, and constipation, with a background of long-standing grief, suppressed anger, and forsaken feeling following spousal loss. On revisiting the case, characteristic symptoms guided the prescription of similimum. Intervention and outcome: A clearer constitutional picture emerged in later follow-ups, characterized by emotional deprivation, silent suffering, sensitivity, and characteristic dreams. Lac humanum was prescribed as the constitutional remedy. Following its administration, the patient showed marked and sustained improvement in skin, joint, and general complaints. At final follow-up, the patient remained symptom-free under placebo. Discussion: This case demonstrates the temporary benefits of prescribing partial similimum remedies repeatedly, in contrast to the enduring improvement observed after identification and administration of the true constitutional remedy. Conclusion: This case highlights the role of constitutional homoeopathic prescribing in chronic dermatological conditions with deep emotional etiologies. Lac humanum acted effectively at the constitutional level, leading to holistic and sustained improvement.