Ultrasand Imaging Department of the Third People’s Hospital of Yichang City, No.23, Gangyao Road, Xiling District, Yichang 443200, Hubei Province, China , Tanyal7518@hotmail.com
Abstract: (21 Views)
Background:Cervical lymphadenopathy presents clinical challenges due to recurrence risk and limited efficacy of conventional approaches. Integrative therapies combining herbal medicine and ultrasound-guided interventions may enhance treatment outcomes. Materials and Methods: In this controlled trial, 120 patients with cervical lymph node disease were divided into two groups according to the actual treatment methods: received XiaKuCao ointment with ultrasound-guided interventional puncture (n=60) or puncture alone (n=60). Primary outcomes included lymph node regression, pain relief, and immunological changes over 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes assessed recurrence, adherence, and safety. Results: The combination group achieved greater lymph node diameter reduction (68.3 ± 5.2% vs. 42.1 ± 6.8%, p<0.001) and faster pain relief (VAS decrease 6.2 ± 1.1 vs. 3.8 ± 1.3, p=0.002). Immunological improvements were significant, with elevated CD4+ counts (842 ± 156 vs. 635 ± 142 cells/μL, p=0.003) and improved CD4/CD8 ratios (1.8 ± 0.4 vs. 1.2 ± 0.3, p=0.001). Inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α, CRP) declined more in the combination group (all p<0.01). Recurrence at 6 months was lower (8.3% vs. 14.2%, p=0.04) with higher adherence (92.4% vs. 84.7%, p=0.03). Adverse events were mild and comparable between groups (11.7% vs. 9.8%, p=0.65). Conclusion: XiaKuCao ointment combined with ultrasound-guided puncture enhanced clinical, immunological, and inflammatory outcomes without increasing adverse events. This integrative approach holds promise for cervical lymph node management and warrants confirmation in larger multicentre trials.