The theory of pupil-collateral disease

the combination of differentiation of ophthalmic collateral and differentiation of viscera

is applied to treat pupil-related diseases

such as diseases of the uvea

retina

macula

and optic nerve

based on the theory of collateral disease (a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) term). The theory of pupil-collateral disease is also in accordance with the TCM principles of harmonizing the viscera

dredging qi and blood

and supplementing deficiency and reducing excess to achieve eye homeostasis. This theory originated from the

Yellow Emperor

'

s Internal Classic

followed by the

Treatise on Febrile Diseases

which was adapted from the

Clinical Guidelines and Medical Records

and developed in later generations. The core pathogenic mechanism of pupil-collateral disease is collateral stasis in the eyes. The characteristics of symptom can be summarized as prolonged

static

stubborn

miscellaneous

and solid. The general principle of treatment is dredging ophthalmic collateral and improving eyesight. Furthermore

considering the degree of damage to the ophthalmic meridians

sufficiency of qi and blood

and the duration of the disease

eight methods were established

including by dredging collateral by using condiment herbs

by promoting blood circulation

by cooling blood

by clearing phlegm

by using insect medicines

by warming yang

by benefiting qi

and by nourishing qi and blood. The theory of pupil-collateral disease will enrich the theoretical connotation of the theory of collateral diseases

providing a reference to improve the efficacy of treatment of eye diseases that are difficult to treat.