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Xue Lizhai stated: Gu Lou Ju (Bone Ant Nest Carbuncle) arises behind the large bone on the anterior-lateral aspect of the arm, belonging to the Hand-Yangming Large Intestine Meridian. It is caused by disharmony of the Seven Emotions (Joy, Anger, Worry, Pensiveness, Sorrow, Fear, Fright), chronic anger, chronic worry, and accumulated heat. Initially, it presents as Luoli (Scrofula/Lymphatic Tuberculosis-like lumps) the size of millet grains, gradually enlarging to the size of a bean. After ten days, it enlarges to the size of a plum or peach, becoming hard and causing unbearable pain. If purple halos expand, rotting spots appear, lesions penetrate muscles, the whole body becomes stiff with convulsions, vomiting and hiccups occur preventing food intake, cold sweat pours out, diarrhea with incontinence ensues, irritability arises, and the pulse becomes chaotic, this indicates a fatal condition. This is due to extreme deficiency of True Yin (Zhen Yin) with solitary hyperactivity of Fire. Treatment should nourish the source of transformation (Spleen and Kidney Yin); do not err by using methods that merely stir boiling water to stop boiling (treating symptoms without addressing the root).

Chui Bi Fa (Drooping Arm Abscess) arises below the olecranon process and above the "arm goose" (area near the elbow tip) when the arm is hanging down. It initially swells to the size of a chicken or duck egg, all caused by disharmony of Ying (Nutritive Qi) and Wei (Defensive Qi). It tends to manifest on solid exterior tissues rather than penetrating inward. Treatment should dispel wind, scatter pathogens, resolve phlegm, and transform toxins, thereby avoiding major complications.

Xue Lizhai stated: Shi Liu Ju (Pomegranate Carbuncle) arises slightly more than one cun above the tip of the elbow, belonging to the Tianjing Acupoint of the Sanjiao (Triple Burner) Meridian. It is formed by the interaction of Ministerial Fire of the Sanjiao and external damp-heat. Initially, it appears as a small yellow millet-like blister; the base feels expanded, red and hard. Gradually, it swells like an inverted bowl, causing unbearable pain. When the skin breaks, it exudes layers resembling pomegranate seeds, causing alternating chills and fever similar to malaria. Internally administer Chansu Wan (Toad Venom Pill) to induce sweating; burn Chrysanthemum flowers to ash while retaining their nature, mix with a small amount of Calomel (Qingfen), grind into powder, and apply to the swollen area for miraculous effect; after rupture, wash the area with decoction of Chrysanthemum stamens, and cover the top with Duoming Dan (Life-Taking Pill) under a plaster. For this condition, suppuration on the ninth day is auspicious, otherwise it is ominous. Decoctions should be managed according to the treatment principles for Ding Ju (Malignant Furuncles/Carbuncles).

Yong (Abscess) arising above the elbow support structure presents with redness, swelling, and pain. If it ruptures, it will inevitably lead to death; do not neglect it lightly. Initially, moxibustion is appropriate.

Zhu Danxi stated: Lou Fu Chuan (Mole Cricket Stringing) arises in the middle of the medial aspect of the forearm, belonging to the Pericardium Meridian. It is caused by excessive worrying injuring the Spleen; when the Spleen is injured, its transportation and transformation functions slow down, generating turbid fluids that flow into the muscles. Stagnant and unsmooth Spleen Qi condenses to form it. Initially, the bones and sinews feel as if struck by a stray arrow, with gradually increasing pain. There is diffuse swelling and hardness, without redness or heat. Swelling occurs in several blocks connecting the dorsum of the hand and the areas anterior and posterior to Neiguan Acupoint, rendering the arm immobile. Over time, the masses gradually ulcerate sequentially, with each hole discharging white serous fluid. Internal ulceration connects various holes, while external swelling and hardness persist, with pus dripping like a leak; the patient must present with sallow complexion, emaciation, reduced appetite, alternating chills and fever in the afternoon, and added deficiency syndromes, forming a Bai Zheng (Decadent Syndrome/Terminal Stage). Initially, Xiaoyao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder) is suitable, followed by Renshen Yangying Tang (Ginseng Nourishing Constitution Decoction) to harmonize Qi and Blood and assist the Spleen and Stomach; three or four out of ten cases may be saved. If cold and purgative drugs are recklessly administered, damaging the Spleen and Stomach, few will survive.

Zhou Yong (Elbow Abscess) arises around the elbow, formed by the condensation of Wind-Fire from the Heart and Lungs. Small in shape, it is called Jie (Furuncle); large in shape, it is called Yong (Abscess).

Zhou Hou Yong (Posterior Elbow Abscess) is also caused by the stagnation of Wind-Fire and coagulation of Qi and Blood. For both conditions at the initial stage, dispersing and regulating Ying (Nutritive Qi) is appropriate.