Exploration on the Pathogenesis and Treatment Principles of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Based on "Host-Guest Interaction" Theory
Abstract: Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is a critical stage leading to disease deterioration and mortality of patients. While current western medical treatments can partially control symptoms, their intervention in the underlying pathological mechanisms of recurrent and persistent exacerbations remains limited. The theory of "host-guest interaction," proposed by WU Youke in Wen Yi Lun (Treatise on Warm-Heat Pestilence), profoundly elucidates the complex pathogenesis involving deficiency of healthy qi and entrenched pathogenic factors. Based on this theory,the core pathogenesis of AECOPD can be interpreted as congenital qi deficiency as the root cause, with external pathogens triggering latent phlegm and the intertwining of phlegm, heat, stasis, and toxins as the manifestations. Accordingly,a diagnostic and therapeutic framework is proposed:"supporting healthy qi and tonifying deficiency to consolidate the host;eliminating pathogens and removing impediment to dispel the guest;and unblocking the collaterals and expelling pathogens to resolve their interaction." The fundamental treatment focuses on supplementing qi,nurturing the primordial qi,and regulating the lung,spleen,and kidney. The symptomatic treatment emphasizes directing qi downward,resolving phlegm,dispelling stasis,and removing toxins. This approach aims to provide a new theoretical perspective and clinical insights for the traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis and treatment of AECOPD.