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Wang Kentang stated: Houyong (Peritonsillar Abscess) occurs at the Jiehou (Adam's apple) area, also known as Mengju (Fierce Carbuncle), because its toxic pathogenic factor is fierce and terrifying. It is caused by accumulated heat and resentment in the Ren Mai (Conception Vessel) and the Hand-Taiyang and Hand-Shaoyin meridians. If left untreated for too long, and it ulcerates through the pharynx, death ensues. (*Yixue Zhunsheng*)

The *Ling Shu* states: When a carbuncle develops in the middle of the pharynx, it is called Mengju. If Mengju is not treated, it transforms into pus; if the pus is not drained and blocks the pharynx, death occurs within half a day. If it has already transformed into pus, it should be drained, followed by the administration of Shigao (Pig Fat Ointment), taken cold, and recovery will occur within three days.

Zhu Danxi stated: Houyong grows between the Jiehou, named the First Pass of Haimen, possessing the most malignant toxicity. This is due to the fire of the Heart and Liver attacking the Spleen and Lungs, with toxic factors assaulting the throat. The use of knives and needles for incision is strictly contraindicated.

Chen Shigong stated: Redness and swelling of the throat and pharynx, with blood stasis causing obstruction and pain, belongs to a branch disease (Biao Bing). Recovery occurs when pus discharges naturally. One should use Jin Suo Chi (Golden Lock Key) to expel phlegm and saliva, pushing away accumulated heat. For cases with distending pain from pus accumulation, incision is indicated; for cases where deficiency causes pain, tonification is indicated, and the patient will recover safely. (*Waike Zhengzong*)

[Image: Houyong]

Classical texts state: If Houyong does not discharge pus, all treatment methods are incorrect.

Jiang Shiji stated: Houyong grows in the center of the outer pharynx, causing swelling and pain that hinders eating, accompanied by redness, swelling, and fever. If one insists on inducing suppuration, needle puncture should be performed when the swelling is soft and distendingly painful. Internally administer formulas for tonifying and supporting expulsion. Apply Yuhong Gao (Jade Red Ointment) externally until the muscle regenerates and the wound closes. In cases where ulceration connects internally, allowing fluids to leak out through the perforation, I have treated several such patients without adverse outcomes. (*Yangyi Shuyue*)

Dou Hanqing stated: Accumulated heat causing Houyong presents with swelling resembling a slightly yellow "Huangtang Li" (a type of plum), with red filaments on the surface. External symptoms include neck pain and toothache, indicating Heat in the Stomach Meridian. Since Stomach Qi connects to the throat, this results in Houyong. The treatment method for Phlegm disorders applies here as well: add Yuanming Fen (Mirabilite) to medicated powders for insufflation, and add Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis), Huangqi (Astragalus), and doubled Huangqin (Scutellaria) to decoctions. (*Chuangyang Quan shu*)

He further stated: Houyong arises from pathogenic factors resulting from the stagnation of the Seven Emotions. If these toxic factors arise in the throat and are not treated promptly, they may invade the laryngeal bone internally. If ulceration occurs, pus will inevitably appear in the mouth. Although life may not be lost, it may develop into a cold fistula (Leng Lou), becoming a chronic lifelong ailment.

Wang Shengzhi stated: Although Houyong causes swelling, the entrance to the pharynx is partially blocked and partially open. Although the condition is fierce, the throat passage is both wide and tight. These are all ominous signs; although severe, they are not necessarily fatal. (*Waike Lili*)

Kui Guang stated: Houyong is caused by excessive consumption of spicy, roasted foods, rich flavors, and strong wine, leading to contraction of Heat pathogens, and is attributed to the Lung. There is no solid mass in the throat, only redness, swelling, and pain. Deficient patients may also experience fever, and recovery can occur within four to five days.

He further stated: Chantoufeng (Tying Throat Wind) and Houyong are commonly suffered by obese individuals who contract Heat pathogens with dry nature. When a small tongue-like structure forms under the tongue, it is called Chantoufeng. If it extends to the throat causing swelling and pain, a carbuncle develops. Generally, conditions involving both are fierce.

He further stated: To treat Houyong, use Bidan (Green Cinnabar Powder) with a small amount of Jindan (Golden Pill), administered internally along with paste medicines or decoctions. (Formulas recorded in the Throat Diseases section.)

He further stated: For patients suffering from Chantoufeng or Houyong, if constipation is present, add Yuanming Fen and Dahuang (Rhubarb) to the decoction; if urination is difficult, add Liuyi San (Six-to-One Powder).

He further stated: For Chantoufeng and Houyong, use Jiawei Xijiao Dihuang Tang (Modified Rhinoceros Horn and Rehmannia Decoction). For the tongue, insufflate Jindan onto the root and sides of the tongue continuously without interruption. For the throat, frequently insufflate Bidan and Jindan.