Kaiy as traditional therapy for pain: is it helpful or a myth?
OBJECTIVE
Two cases of traditional kaiy (Arabic for cauterisation) therapy for pain are reported. This technique is unknown in western countries and should be banned following a review of the topic.


METHODS
Many patients in developing countries use alternative, complementary or traditional therapies before seeking medical advice. This may be due to social or religious beliefs. Kaiy is one such traditional therapy which should be discouraged. Two cases are reported, the first with aural pain and the second with thyroid pain (with malignancy later diagnosed).


CONCLUSIONS
In these days of modern health care, the practice of kaiy is not science-based and is associated with considerable health risks. Health authorities in the relevant societies should move towards banning this undesirable practice; they should also use multi-media health education to advise of its dangerous outcomes, and enlist the help of community religious leaders to change public opinion and belief.
Abou-Elhamd
K-E A
KE
Department of Surgery, Al-Ahsa College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. Kamal375@yahoo.com
D000328:Adult; D002425:Cautery / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004433:Earache / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008519:Medicine, Traditional; D008875:Middle Aged; D059408:Pain Management; D013964:Thyroid Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*