Library

Fanlip Ding (Reverse Lip Carbuncle) arises on the inner edge of the lip, while Suokou Ding (Lock-Mouth Carbuncle) occurs at the corner of the mouth. Initially, it presents as a hard, swollen nodule resembling a millet seed, accompanied by numbness, itching, and pain. This is caused by Fire-Toxin accumulation in the Spleen-Stomach and Heart meridians.

[Note] Both conditions are caused by Fire-Toxin. Fanlip Ding grows on the lip margin towards the inside; the upper lip belongs to the Spleen meridian, and the lower lip belongs to the Stomach meridian. Suokou Ding grows at the corner of the mouth and is governed by the Heart and Spleen meridians. At the onset, both present as small, hard nodules like millet seeds, with a purple color and hardness akin to iron. When swelling is severe, there is numbness, itching, and insensibility ("mutong"), accompanied by alternating chills and fever, mental restlessness, and nausea. In severe cases of Fanlip Ding, the lip may evert outward; in severe cases of Suokou Ding, the mouth may become unable to open. These are rapid-progressing conditions requiring immediate treatment. Delay allows the Toxin to invade the interior, leading to coma and nausea, a condition known as "Zouhuang" (Carbuncle Poison Spreading). Treatment follows the protocols for Ding diseases in the Ding section. Moxibustion is strictly prohibited.

Chuju (Lip Abscess) arises on the upper or lower lip, accompanied by alternating chills and fever, indicating deep-seated toxin. The lesion is purple, hard, and often feels numb and severely painful. Its cause is accumulated Heat in the Spleen and Stomach.

[Note] This condition occurs on the lips, regardless of position (upper/lower, left/right), and is caused by accumulated Heat in the Spleen and Stomach. The lesion is purple with a head, ranging in size from a date to a plum. It is swollen and hard as iron, with frequent sensations of numbness and pain. Severe cases involve alternating chills and fever. Initially, Shen Shou Wei Sheng Tang should be administered orally; for patients with excess constitution, Shuang Jie Gui Jin Wan is indicated. Topically, Li Gong Ding can be applied to resolve the swelling. If the lesion does not subside after several days, it must suppurate, and treatment should follow the protocols for Yong Ju (Abscesses and Ulcers) sections.

Jianchun (Silkworm Cocoon Lip) is formed by the aggregation of accumulated Fire in the Spleen and Stomach. It begins as a bean-sized nodule and gradually enlarges into a shape resembling a silkworm cocoon. It is hard and painful, interfering with eating. For early-stage cases or those that have formed without systemic symptoms, Chansu Bing (Toad Venom Cake) should be applied topically, covered with Tuoseng Gao (Monk's Plaster). With prolonged use, it will gradually subside. If thirst is present, Qingliang Ganlu Yin is appropriate. If the face is red, lips are dry and cracked, and constipation exists, this indicates an Excess of Qi pattern, and Liang Ge San is indicated. If symptoms are milder during the day and heavier at night, accompanied by five-palm heat (heat sensation in palms, soles, and chest), malar flush, and a deficient, rapid, and forceless pulse, Jiaban Bawei Wan is indicated to nourish Kidney Water and Yin. If the ulcer erupts with a fungating appearance ("fanhua") and discharges blood and fluid, it is considered a Ni syndrome (adverse prognosis). Neglect in regulation and treatment may lead to Shang Xiao, Zhong Xiao, and Xia Xiao (the three types of Xiao Ke/Wasting-Thirst disease), which indicates a ominous prognosis.