Ayurvedic Palliative Management in Recurrent Malignant Leg Ulcer of Soft Tissue Sarcoma - A Case Study

Abstract

Soft Tissue Sarcomas are malignant ulcers originating from mesenchymal cells and most commonly affects muscles, fat, tendons & connective tissues of extremities. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the treatments for STS in Oncology. Lungs are the common site of metastasis and patient may survive for 5-10 years after diagnosis of STS due to its rapid blood spread. This is a case report of 77year old female patient presented with a non-healing ulcer over her left lower leg with raised elevated edge partially covering the ulcer floor, black tissue on ulcer floor, profuse pus discharge, bleeding and foul smell. Her disease is diagnosed as Soft Tissue Sarcoma. Clinical findings of the patient are similar to Asadhya Dushtavrana mentioned by Susruta. So Vranasodhana and Vranaropana therapy were selected for the management of Soft Tissue Sarcoma. Punarnavadi Kasaya, Kanchanara Guggulu, Kaishora Guggulu, Rasasindooram and Guggulutiktakam Ghritam were given internally. External interventions include cleansing with Triphala Kasaya, dressing with papaya latex and application of Jathyadi Ghrita mixed with Rasasindooram. External therapies lead to debridement of necrotic mass and promote wound healing due to Vranasodhana & Vranaropana effect. The ulcer is devoid of foul smell after treatment. Reduction in ulcer size, pus and bleeding with clean floor after ayurvedic management is due to the Vranasodhana effect.