Holistic Management of Multiple Myeloma: A Case Report on Siddha Therapy as an Adjunct to the Bortezomib-Lenalidomide-Dexamethasone (BLD) Regimen

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a complex haematological malignancy characterized by the clonal proliferation of plasma cells within the bone marrow. It is the second most common haematological malignancy that presents in elderly patients. The integration of complementary medicine into conventional cancer care is increasingly observed among patients, driven by factors such as symptom management, holistic well-being, and cultural alignment. This case report presents the integrated management of a 65-year-old male patient diagnosed with MM, who received both chemotherapy and Siddha medicine to alleviate constitutional symptoms and improve overall well-being. The patient complained of weakness, easy fatigability, and insomnia. The diagnosis of MM was established elsewhere through serum protein electrophoresis, immunofixation, and bone marrow biopsy. He was treated with the bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (BLD) regimen along with a combination of Siddha herbal and herbo-mineral formulations. After six months, the patient demonstrated significant improvements in haematological parameters, general physical condition, and quality of life. This case highlights the potential benefits of integrating traditional Siddha medicine with conventional allopathic therapy in managing MM.