National Standard Code
A05.15
GB/T 15657-2021
Category
Kidney-related diseases and symptoms

Traditional Chinese Medicine Definition

Guange, also known as renal failure, falls under the category of kidney-related diseases in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). According to the classic text "Internal Medicine of Traditional Chinese Medicine," Guange is characterized by the decline of kidney Qi, leading to dysregulation of opening and closing, abnormal fluid metabolism, resulting in oliguria, anuria, or urinary retention. The accumulation of fluid within the body may lead to edema. The pathogenesis of Guange is centered around the decline of kidney Qi, involving multiple organs such as the spleen, lung, and Sanjiao.

In clinical practice of TCM, the core pathogenesis of Guange is the decline of kidney Qi, which leads to the dysregulation of opening and closing and fluid metabolism. Common precipitating factors include long-term illness, overexertion, irregular diet, and emotional disturbances. During the process of differentiation, it is essential to differentiate between cold and heat, as well as deficiency and excess. The syndrome of spleen and kidney Yang deficiency is characterized by oliguria or anuria, general edema, dark complexion, fatigue, and aversion to cold. The treatment approach is to warm and tonify the spleen and kidney, transform dampness, and reduce turbidity. The syndrome of liver and kidney Yin deficiency is manifested by scanty urine, dizziness, tinnitus, dry mouth, and throat. The treatment approach is to nourish the liver and kidney, benefit Yin, and reduce turbidity. Overall, the treatment of Guange should focus on holistic treatment, emphasizing the restoration of organ functions such as the spleen, liver, and kidney, to restore the balance of fluid metabolism.

Common Syndrome Types and Key Points of Differentiation

Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency Syndrome

Main Manifestations: Oliguria or anuria, general edema, dark complexion, fatigue and aversion to cold

Management Approach: Wen Bu Pi Shen, Hua Shi Jiang Zhu

Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency Syndrome

Main Manifestations: Reduced urine output, dizziness, tinnitus, dry mouth, and sore throat

Management Approach: Zhi Bu Gan Shen, Yi Yin Jiang Zhu

The above syndrome information is based on traditional Chinese medicine textbooks and clinical standards. Specific differentiation should be completed by a practicing traditional Chinese medicine physician in person.

Physician's Clinical Insights

For patients with Guange, the condition of the complexion, mental state, and degree of edema are key indicators for assessing the progression of the disease.

— Fan Li Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Practitioner Assistant Physician

Reviewed by: Fan Li (Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Practitioner Assistant Physician) | 2026-07-07 | Version 2

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This page is for the popular science of traditional Chinese medicine knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Specific diagnosis should be completed by a licensed traditional Chinese medicine practitioner in person.

This article has been reviewed by licensed TCM physicians at Hangzhou Kezhentang TCM Clinic. It is for TCM popular science reference only and does not involve specific treatment plan recommendations.

References: Internal Medicine of TCM (13th Five-Year Plan Textbook), Diagnostic and Therapeutic Effectiveness Standards for TCM Diseases and Syndromes (ZY/T001.1-94), Classification and Codes of TCM Diseases and Syndromes (GB/T 15657-2021)

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