Exploring the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis Based on the Theory of Collateral Diseases
10.16466/j.issn1005-5509.2025.02.004
- VernacularTitle:从络病理论探讨多发性硬化的因机证治
- Author:
Yunfan ZHANG
1
;
Di ZHAO
;
Jingjing WEI
Author Information
1. 北京中医药大学研究生院 北京 100029;中国中医科学院西苑医院
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
the theory of collateral diseases;
multiple sclerosis;
flaccidity syndrome;
etiology and pathology;
syndrome differentia-tion and treatment;
theoretical discussion;
collateral-unblocking method;
medical records
- From:
Journal of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University
2025;49(2):146-152
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
[Objective]To explore the etiology,pathogenesis and treatment principles of multiple sclerosis(MS)based on the theory of collateral diseases in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).[Methods]By analyzing ancient and modern literature on TCM concepts such as"collateral diseases"and"atrophy syndromes",and integrating modern medical research on the biological mechanisms of MS treatment,this study summarizes the approach to diagnose and treat MS based on the theory of collateral diseases,supported by a case example.[Results]The collaterals are the units for the distribution of blood and Qi,which,through the coordination of meridian Qi flow and the balance of nutrient and defensive Qi,plays a role in distributing blood,Qi and body fluids,and nourishing the meridians and viscera.The physiological characteristics of the collaterals determine that they become sites for the invasion,concealment and development of pathogenic factors.Analysis based on the theory of collateral diseases suggests that damp-heat stagnation,essence deficiency and blood stasis in the collaterals are the underlying mechanisms for the complex clinical manifestations of MS.Treatment principles proposed include strengthening the spleen and promoting diuresis to clear dampness,harmonizing the liver and kidneys to nourish the collaterals,and promoting the circulation of Qi and blood to unblock the collaterals.The attached test case belonged to the impotence of liver and kidney deficiency,treated by supplementing the liver and kidney,warm and smooth meridians,and achieved better curative effect.[Conclusion]The theory of collateral diseases,as an important part of the meridian and collateral system in TCM,holds broad prospects in the treatment of neurological diseases.It can provide methods and ideas for the theoretical research and clinical treatment of MS with TCM.
