ROLE OF KALA BASTI AND SHAMANA CHIKITSA IN THE AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF CHEMOTHERAPY-INDUCED ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY: A SAMHITA SIDDHANTA-BASED PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication associated with nephrotoxic anticancer agents. Renal toxicity develops due to direct tubular epithelial damage, oxidative stress, inflammatory mediator release, endothelial dysfunction, and impaired renal microcirculation. AKI significantly compromises continuation of chemotherapy, increases morbidity, and deteriorates patient quality of life. Modern management primarily includes supportive care, hydration therapy, electrolyte correction, and renal replacement therapy in severe conditions. However, satisfactory renal recovery remains a major challenge.

Ayurveda explains such pathological conditions under the concepts of Mutravaha Srotodushti, Basti Vikara, Vata-pradhana Tridoshaja Vyadhi, Dhatukshaya, Ama, and Srotorodha. Chemotherapy acts as an Agantuja Nidana leading to Agnimandya, Ama formation, Ojakshaya, tissue depletion, and Vata aggravation ultimately affecting Mutravaha Srotas and renal physiology.

The present case report evaluates the efficacy of Kala Basti and Shamana Chikitsa in chemotherapy-induced AKI from a Samhita Siddhanta perspective. A 55-year-old male patient presented with generalized weakness, fatigue, anorexia, reduced urinary output, pedal edema, nausea, and disturbed sleep following chemotherapy. Initial laboratory investigations revealed severe renal dysfunction with serum creatinine 5.90 mg/dL and blood urea 115.8 mg/dL. The patient was treated with Kala Basti using Trinpanchamoola Kwatha and Chandana Bala Taila along with internal medications including Keedajadi Capsule, Neeri KFT Syrup, Amyron Tablet, Punarnava Mandura, and Eranda Bhrashta Haritaki.

After treatment, significant clinical and biochemical improvement was observed. Serum creatinine reduced from 5.90 mg/dL to 1.70 mg/dL, blood urea reduced from 115.8 mg/dL to 58.4 mg/dL, and overall quality of life improved substantially.

The present case demonstrates that Ayurvedic management based on Samhita Siddhanta principles may provide effective supportive nephroprotective care in chemotherapy-induced renal injury through Vatanulomana, Srotoshodhana, Rasayana, and Mutrala effects.