Addressing challenges and research priorities: Traditional Chinese medicine advantage in treating plasma cell mastitis

Recently, Professor Ye Meina, head of Department of Breast Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM), published an article entitled “Strategic framework to advance scientific innovation in clinically dominant diseases in traditional Chinese medicine: Plasma cell mastitis” in World Journal of Integrated traditional and western Medicine(WJIM).

The article systematically explored the pathogenesis and clinical management challenges in identification and intervention of plasma cell mastitis (PCM), and building upon the strengths of TCM treatment, proposes five priority research areas and formulates corresponding scientific plans. It aims to provide references for national science and technology planning, the development of new TCM drugs, research topic selection, and the formulation of clinical guidelines and consensus, with the goal of advancing high-quality TCM practices.

Leveraging the authoritative academic platform of China Association of Chinese Medicine(CACM), the research team collaborated with experts in TCM, Western medicine, and interdisciplinary fields to develop the first evidence map for TCM management of PCM (covering internal/external treatments and preventive whole-cycle care). The map highlights the strengths of TCM in treating PCM while also addressing existing clinical challenges. The team systematically summarized the progression patterns of PCM and identified limitations in modern medical diagnosis and therapy. For the first time, they proposed the term "Refractory Non-Puerperal Mastitis (RNPM)" to describe complex cases presenting with multiple abscesses, sinus tracts, or fistulas. Focusing on four key aspects, early detection, treatment standardization, mechanistic clarification, and disease prediction, the study outlines essential priorities for scientific research and technological development in PCM: (1) early identification and intervention of PCM; (2) optimization of the TCM syndrome differentiation system; (3) standardization of therapeutic efficacy evaluation; (4) investigation into disease mechanisms and TCM therapeutic targets; (5) prevention and complication management of PCM.

PCM is characterized as a "benign disease with malignant behavior". In recent years, due to its increasing prevalence, worsening clinical symptoms, and high recurrence rate, it has become a clinically challenging condition. Although TCM and integrated medicine approaches demonstrate unique advantages and therapeutic efficacy, there remains a lack of universally accepted diagnostic criteria and standardized protocols. The treatment of PCM currently lacks sufficient evidence-based medical support. How to scientifically preserve and advance the strengths of TCM in managing PCM requires in-depth consideration and strategic planning. The research team has put forward targeted recommendations, outlining expected goals and value, with the aim of providing research and development directions for future TCM and integrated approaches in the prevention and treatment of PCM, thereby truly achieving the preservation of TCM heritage and fostering innovation.

The complete study is accessible via DOI: 10.70976/j.2096-0964.WJIM-2025-0014

World Journal of Integrated traditional and western Medicine (English Version) (WJIM, CN 10-1354/R, ISSN 2096-0964) is a quarterly, English-language, peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to advancing the integration of traditional Chinese and Western medicine. Established in 2015, the journal is supervised by the China Association for Science and Technology and is solely sponsored by the China Association of Chinese Medicine. The founding Editor-in-Chief was Professor Wu Yiling, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, with Professor Lu Zhizheng, a distinguished TCM Master, serving as the Honorary Editor-in-Chief. The current Editor-in-Chief is Professor Zhang Xiaoxiao.

WJIM aims to report original theoretical research, the development and application of novel technologies and methodologies, as well as breakthroughs in clinical scientific inquiries, to promote the international exchange of Chinese medicine and integrative medicine.

WJIM welcomes manuscripts from all over the world on all aspects of traditional Chinese medicine, Chinese materia medica, and integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine. Article types include Perspective, Review, Research Article, and Case Reports etc.