Scrofula - Luo Li

Definition

Luo Li is an infection of the cervical lymph nodes caused by tuberculous bacillus, equivalent to tuberculosis of cervical lymph nodes.

Early stage

Symptoms: Swelling of a single or a number of lymph nodes, small size- preauricular and retroauricular, under the chin, in front on back of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, supraclavicular fossa, axillary and even celiac. Hard but movable. A little pain when palpated. Normal skin colour.
Tongue:
Pulse:
Treatment strategy: Soothe the liver to relieve stagnation, strengthen the spleen to resolve phlegm
Formula: Xiao Yao San with Er Chen Tang plus Bei Mu and Xia Ku Cao
Acupoints:

Middle stage

Symptoms: Swelling of lymph node more evident. Adhesion between several lymph nodes and the skin. Hard and movement restricted. “Cold” abscesses formed, soft middle, slightly hot skin with dull red colour.
Tongue:
Pulse:
Treatment strategy: Soothe the liver to relieve stagnation, strengthen the spleen to resolve phlegm and lift out the toxin and the pus.
Formula: Xiao Yao San with Er Chen Tang plus Huang Qi, Zao Jiao Ci and Bai Zhi
Acupoints:

Late stage

Symptoms: Tidal fever, night sweat, tiredness and irritation. Diabrosis (broken wound) with thin and clear pus and cheesy necrotic substance. Formation of ulcer or sinuses.
Tongue:
Pulse:
Treatment strategy: Nourish the Lung and Kidney
Formula: Zhi Bai Di Huang Tang with Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang
Acupoints: