POEMS SYNDROME- COMPLEMENTARY APPROACH IN AYURVEDA: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

POEMS syndrome is a rare multisystem disorder that develops due to an underlying plasma cell dyscrasia. Peripheral neuropathy is a prominent symptom and often the first identified common clinical condition.In the present study, a diagnosed case of POEMS syndrome, a 50-year-old male patient who presented with pins and needle sensation in B/L soles, electric shock like sensation and heaviness of both lower limbs below knee joints since one year; imbalance while walking and tendency to fall on tripping over small objects from 06 months of onset of the disease. Examination revealed absent triceps, knee and ankle jerk; and quadri-paresis of all limbs. Sensory system examination showed decreased pain, touch and tempera-ture sensation on bilateral lower limbs below knee level and lateral aspect of left thigh. Loss of vibration sensation on both lower limbsfrom ASIS (Anterior superior iliac spine) to toes and mild impairment in JPS (Joint Position Sense) in bilateral toes also noted. Allodynia, swelling and blackish discoloration present on B/L lower limbs. Considering the signs and symptoms, the disease was diagnosed as Vatakaphadhika Vatarakta. Symptomatic treatment focusing on external therapy (Dhanyamladhara – Pouring of Dhanyamla over body) was done for 14 days.Theintervention resulted in significant clinical improvement as evidenced by the reduction in NPS (Neuropathic Pain Scale Score) from 80 to 38 and improvement in vibration and hot sensation assessed using Neuropathy Analyser. There was remarkable im-provement in swelling and pain in the patient.This case report is an attempt to introduce PO-EMS syndrome in the light of Ayurveda and to emphasise the promising role of integrative therapeutic approaches in improving patient’s quality of life.