Author(s)

Jiaqi Jiang ¹, Jingtao Sha ²

Affiliation(s)

¹ Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, 712046, Shaanxi, China
² Xi'an Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 710021, Shaanxi, China

Corresponding Author

Jingtao Sha

ABSTRACT

Chronic radiation-induced intestinal injury (CRIII) is a common complication in patients undergoing abdominal or pelvic radiotherapy, characterized by persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, and hematochezia. Conventional treatments often yield limited efficacy and associated side effects, underscoring the need for more effective therapeutic approaches. Based on the theory of Latent Pathogen in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this study proposes a comprehensive etiopathogenetic framework centered on spleen dysfunction. Within this model, spleen deficiency is considered the core pathological basis, which further intertwines with dampness accumulation, toxin-blood stasis interaction, and progressive yin-fluid depletion. Correspondingly, the proposed treatment strategy prioritizes: (1) strengthening the spleen and replenishing qi to address the root cause; (2) resolving dampness and detoxification; (3) activating blood circulation to resolve stasis; and (4) nourishing yin to restore fluid balance. A representative clinical case is presented, demonstrating marked symptom improvement following treatment with a customized herbal protocol tailored to these principles. This TCM-based integrative framework offers a promising translational model for synergizing with Western medicine in the holistic management of CRIII.

KEYWORDS

Chronic Radiation-Induced Intestinal Injury; Latent Pathogen Theory; Spleen-Oriented Treatment; Damp-Heat and Blood Stasis Toxin

CITE THIS PAPER

Jiaqi Jiang, Jingtao Sha, A Spleen-Centric Therapeutic Approach for Chronic Radiation-Induced Intestinal Injury Based on the Latent Pathogen Theory. MEDS Basic Medicine (2025) Vol. 3: 135-140. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.23977/medbm.2025.030120.

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