Revitalizing classical theories:a necessary way to overcome bottlenecks in TCM oncology
WANG Sanhu
WANG Bing
Abstract：Based on a comprehensive review of the historical evolution and current status of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)oncology,this paper identifies two fundamental factors contributing to the developmental bottleneck in this discipline:the overemphasis on syndrome differentiation at the expense of TCM disease differentiation characteristics,and the persistent neglect of classical TCM literature in contemporary practice and research.Huangdi Neijing proposes the theory of pathogenic wind and cold invading the body,which is worthy of in-depth investigation.Based on the TCM consensus that"wind is the leading cause of all diseases",this study suggests that pathogenic wind plays a significant role in the initiation and progression of tumors.Furthermore,the disturbance of the heart spirit is identified as the intrinsic condition that facilitates the invasion of pathogenic factors into the body.The pathogenic mechanism underlying tumor formation involves a combination of multiple factors,characterized by the internalization of pathogenic factors,with pruritus serving as a symptomatic indicator of this process.The pathogenic mechanism of pathogenic wind-induced tumor formation is characterized by the complex interaction of pathogenic wind with other factors,including cold,heat,dampness,phlegm,qi dysregulation,body fluid imbalance,and static blood.The dynamic and unpredictable nature of pathogenic wind disrupts the equilibrium of yin and yang within the human body,thereby creating a pathological environment conducive to tumor development.In terms of clinical manifestations,the symptoms exhibit rapid alternation between primary and secondary manifestations,frequently involving multiple zang-fu organs,meridians,and collaterals,with significant variability in disease severity.This study proposes the hypothesis that"pathogenic wind invading the body contributes to tumor formation".Huangdi Neijing elucidates the process of tumorigenesis,emphasizing the congealing and accumulation of pathogenic cold in the interior,as well as the interplay between cold and heat and the obstruction of body fluids as key mechanisms in tumor pathogenesis.Furthermore,Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber establishes a correlation between lung atrophy and intestinal abscess with modern concepts of lung cancer and colorectal cancer,respectively,providing a valuable framework for disease identification and treatment of malignant tumors.The therapeutic approach to tumors can be guided by the theory of six-meridian differentiation,and classical formulas demonstrate significant potential in the management of malignant tumors.Additionally,Shen Nong's Herbal Classic offers substantial insights into tumor treatment.In recent years,classical formulas have garnered increasing attention for their role in the prevention and treatment of malignant tumors,highlighting their enduring relevance in contemporary oncology practice.Thus,it can be concluded that revitalizing classical theories is an essential pathway to overcome developmental bottlenecks in the discipline of TCM oncology.
Keywords：TCM classicsTCM oncologyHuangdi Neijingtheory of causes of diseaseclassical formuladiscipline development
Publication Date：2025-04-30
Online Publishing Date：2026-08-26(First online date of this platform, not the publication date of the document)
Pages：5( 421-425 )