On the basis of the theory of formal concept analysis (FCA), a new method for generation of an attribute hierarchical graph is proposed in this paper. This method can solve the problems of how to mine and express classification knowledge and rules in compatibility of prescription. In this paper, we view prescriptions as objects that possess certain attributes of the named drugs. First, the formal context is established based on theory. Then optimization of the original formal context and extracts the connotation and extension of the concept are followed, constructing attribute hierarchical graph. Finally, useful knowledge from the hierarchical diagram of attributes based on the way of knowledge representation is mined. The result showed that the method for discovering Traditional Chinese Prescription (TCP) diagnostic knowledge is feasible and effectual for small samples. The research of large samples is 13th open question of FCA. It is an international subject to be studied urgently.
Concept Formation ; Drug Combinations ; Drug Prescriptions ; standards ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal ; chemistry ; therapeutic use ; Humans ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional ; standards

Item 32 in Shanghanlun(Treatise on Cold Damage Diseases, Edition of Song Dynasty) discussed the characteristics of middle energizer deficiency cold pattern and cold qi affecting lesser yin lower energizer.Due to spleen-stomach yang deficiency and abnormal ascending and descending,middle energizer cold does not always stagnate in middle energizer, but has tendency of ascending counterflow and descending slide.Therefore, the analysis of middle energizer deficiency cold pattern should comprehensively consider the degree of deficiency and debilitation of yang qi,severity of cold pathogen, amount of water-dampness stagnation,and disease tendency besides standing on disease location of spleen and stomach in middle energizer.Deep understanding of pathogenesis characteristics of middle energizer cold and evolvement rule of middle energizer deficiency cold pattern has positive significance in guiding clinical practice.