Case report of Esophagus Squamous Cell Carcinoma treated with Novel Drug Preparation Method of Catheranthus rosea (Periwinkle) - An Integrated Oncological approach

Abstract

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC)is a high-grade malignancy often requiring aggressive multimodal therapy. While conventional chemotherapy remains a standard of care, integrating with botanical preparations may improve therapeutic outcomes and patient resilience. Further Integrated oncology aims to bridge traditional pharmacological preparations with standard care to enhance the therapeutic window and mitigate systemic exhaustion. This particular case report explores the synergistic potential of a novel Ayurvedic preparation of Catharanthus roseus (L) G.Don (Periwrinkle) in a patient with advanced ESCC. Case presentation: A 40years old female Presented with biopsy-confirmed mid thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma on 2nd October 2024. She exhibited persistent dysphagia, significant luminal narrowing and chemotherapy induced alopecia The patient initially underwent a conventional oncology protocol with 5 cycles of chemotherapy with Paclitaxel and carboplatin weekly once doses. To augment her treatment and manage systemic toxicity, approached integrative Ayurvedic therapy. Interventions A novel drug preparation derived from Catharanthus roseus (L)G.Don flower sheetha kashaya was administered alongside clinical monitoring. C roseus is known to contain potent vinca alkaloids, such as vincristine, vinblastine and vindocin which inhibit microtubule polymerization. The novel Ayurvedic preparation method (seethakashaya) aimed to optimize the bioavailability and therapeutic index of these phytoconstituents. Dietary Restrictions and Support. Refined sugar, Maida, non-vegetarian foods were excluded and regular intake of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) juice and Cucumber (Cucumber sativus) juice hematopoietic support included. Results: Sequential haematological and radiological assessment conducted over an one and half years period demonstrated consistent tumor stability, Notably, the patient reported significant improvement in general health, her weight gain from 51 to 57 kgs, functional status and tolerance to previous cytotoxic stressors, no significant adverse haematological shifts were found during.