Wu Collection, Middle Volume
Radical: Sickness (bù)
疽
Kangxi stroke count: 10
Page 771, Entry 16
Pronounced ju.
In the Discussion of Characters (Shuowen), it is defined as a chronic abscess. According to medical texts, an abscess (yong) is caused by disharmony of the six internal organs, while a deep-seated ulcer (ju) is caused by the disharmony of the five viscera. When yang energy is obstructed by yin, an abscess is formed; when yin energy is obstructed by yang, a deep-seated ulcer is formed.
In the Zuo Tradition (Zuozhuan) for the 19th year of Duke Xiang, it mentions Xun Yan having a malignant sore. The commentary notes that this sore is a virulent ulcer. The sub-commentary states that a deep-seated ulcer is an abscess.
In the Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji), Biography of Sun Zi and Wu Qi, it is recorded that when a soldier suffered from a deep-seated ulcer, the general knelt to suck the pus from it.
According to the Investigation of Correct Characters (Zhengzitong), an abscess that is deep-seated is called a deep-seated ulcer. A deep-seated ulcer is profound and malignant, whereas an abscess is superficial and large.
Pronounced ju (rising tone). It refers to an itching disease.