bubble_chart Concept

Umbilical fistula disease refers to the condition where the navel ulcerates, forming an internal sinus tract, with pus dripping in a manner resembling a fistula disease. It is also known as umbilical sore fistula disease.

The "True Treatise on Surgery" suggests that this condition is often caused by a prior case of umbilical carbuncle (omphalitis) that does not heal over time.

bubble_chart Pattern Analysis

1. Dampness-heat of Spleen and Stomach︰Yellow sticky fluid occasionally oozes from the navel, painless but itchy, accompanied by abdominal distension and fullness, reduced appetite, nausea, fatigue, scanty and yellow urine, a yellow and greasy tongue coating, and a soggy, rapid pulse. This condition arises from water-dampness soaking the umbilical region, allowing dampness to invade the navel, internally affecting the spleen and stomach, where it stagnates and transforms into heat. The resulting dampness-heat permeation leads to intermittent discharge of yellow sticky fluid from the navel. If left untreated for an extended period, it may progress into umbilical fistula disease with dual deficiency of qi and blood. The dampness-heat should be addressed by clearing heat and drying dampness to fortify the spleen. Internally, administer Stomach-Calming Powder with added Poria, and apply San Miao Powder externally.
2. Deficiency of Both Qi and Blood︰The pus in the navel is thin and clear, without pain or itching, complexion pale, dizziness and palpitation, shortness of breath and lack of strength, tongue texture tender and pale, pulse thin and weak. It is mostly caused by prolonged umbilical fistula disease, resulting in injury to qi and blood. The characteristics are thin and clear pus, without pain or itching. For deficiency of both qi and blood, it is advisable to tonify and replenish qi and blood, internally administer Tuoli Powder, and externally apply Babao Pearl Powder.

Umbilical fistula disease commonly occurs in infants, especially newborns. It may be caused by urine or sweat soaking, or by bathwater immersion. It can also occur when the umbilical scab falls off and inadequate care leads to skin abrasion from clothing, allowing moisture to enter the navel, resulting in umbilical fistula disease with water discharge. If left untreated for a long time, it may develop into a purulent fistula or even lead to convulsions and death. Therefore, early treatment is essential. Newborns should receive enhanced care, with attention to cleanliness and hygiene, to prevent the occurrence of umbilical fistula disease.