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Carbuncles and sores (superficial suppurative infections), regardless of whether they occur in the upper, middle, or lower parts of the body, depend primarily on distinguishing between Yang syndromes and Yin syndromes. For back carbuncles (carbuncle on the back), although there are central and lateral variations, one must also observe them according to their high and low morphological characteristics.

In a pure Yang syndrome, initial onset is characterized by definite swelling, accompanied by fever and slight aversion to cold. The apex rises sharply like the character "Jian" (pointed), the swelling resembles a curved bow, and the base has a discoid spread. Within seven days, pain is severe; within fourteen days, pus gradually spreads. At this stage, breathing becomes calm, appetite returns, and bowel and bladder functions are regular without diarrhea or dryness. As swelling subsides and pus erupts, spirit refreshes, necrotic tissue sloughs off, new flesh grows, and Qi and Blood are restored. The "Five Good Signs" (five prognostic indicators of favorable outcome) naturally arrive completely, while the "Seven Bad Signs" (seven prognostic indicators of unfavorable outcome) are entirely absent. Pain decreases with pus discharge, and swelling recedes allowing muscles to relax; newly formed granulation tissue appears bright red, while necrotic skin retracts and turns white. The whole body feels comfortable, and the five Zang organs function harmoniously. This belongs to pure Yang syndrome, which is easy to treat; nearly all patients can be saved and remain safe.

In a pure Yin syndrome, the initial onset shows no distinct sore shape, appearing as stiff nodules the size of millet grains. There is no redness, no swelling, and no pain, requiring caution for slight fever and slight aversion to cold. After seven days, the body feels fatigued, the sore base is flat, and the patient desires cold drinks. The apex is not elevated, the base is inactive, the color is dull, and the necrotic tissue is not ripe. The lesion is depressed and soft with no pus, only empty aggregation. The pulse is floating, scattered, large, yet fine and flying. There is loss of appetite, trembling of the body, and anxiety when drinking fluids. The tissue growing on the sore resembles shed nails, and hard knots inside the pores resemble budding flowers. Pus is abundant and foul-smelling, causing bodily discomfort. Movements are panicked, and respiration is short. The sore takes on a purple-black color, and the complexion turns greenish-yellow. Spirit is confused and drowsy with snoring; speech is disjointed, speaking to no one. There is dry mouth, tongue stiffness, phlegm, and wheezing, ultimately leading to death. This belongs to pure Yin syndrome, which is untreatable; nearly all patients will perish.

When Yin and Yang syndromes intersect, life and death outcomes are mixed, presenting complex situations. Symptoms include slight fever, slight aversion to cold, slight redness and swelling, half-confused and half-clear consciousness, and a sore that is partially flat and partially elevated. The pulse may be rapid but mostly forceless. Although food is consumed, digestion is poor. Swelling without ulceration indicates Spleen deficiency; ulceration without healing indicates excessive pus. Frequent loose stools and frequent urination occur, with sweating on the upper body and dryness/irritability in the lower body. Although some "Five Good Signs" are present, the "Seven Bad Signs" have not been fully escaped. Thirst with a preference for tea, abdominal pain, facial edema, anorexia, and elevation of the sole of the foot are observed. Restlessness prevents sound sleep; mental confusion causes fear of noise. Prescriptions must match the disease precisely to be effective, transforming Yin into Yang so the condition gradually becomes manageable. If the physician possesses true creative power, the patient's life can be secured. However, even if met with the hands of an immortal, those in a state of half-death and half-life may still escape salvation.