The acupoint sensitization theory,a breakthrough in acupuncture and moxibustion over the past two decades,has greatly enhanced the understanding of meridians and acupoints while increasing the effectiveness of clinical diagnosis and treatment in acupuncture and moxibustion practices.The number of studies on surface sensitization site detection for different diseases is increasing.However,systematic sorting and a summary of the detection mode of surface sensitization points are lacking.Therefore,this study categorizes the method of surface sensitization point detection into two modes:pan-scanning and focused scanning.The classification is based on the characteristics of the openness of the research purpose,the precision of the target range,and the degree of variation during detection.The two modes have considerable differences in the exploration efficiency and the presentation of result.The pan-scanning mode can be further subdivided into holistic and localized pan-scanning modes,whereas the focused-scanning mode can be subdivided into fixed-and variable-focused scanning modes.This study analyzes the application scenarios,characteristics,advantages,and limitations of each detection mode and presents opinions on mode selection,mode innovation,and future development directions.This study aims to provide valuable insights and guidance for the follow-up research on surface sensitization site detection of various diseases.