Can Ba Zhen Wan Be Taken with High ANA Levels in Children?

Is it safe to take Ba Zhen Wan if the ANA index is too high?

Hello, the child is experiencing severe hair loss, and the new hair growth is predominantly white.
Blood tests revealed an antinuclear antibody titer of 1:640.
The child is currently taking quinine and Xintimux.
Is it safe to take Ba Zhen Wan at the same time? Thank you!

Peggy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/03

Dr. Hou Yuchang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Ms.
Peggy,
Your question is quite difficult to answer, primarily because the ANA index lacks clear specificity, and currently, there are no relevant studies correlating this data with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnoses.
Severe hair loss can have multiple causes in TCM and must be accompanied by other symptoms for a proper diagnosis.
Premature graying of hair also has various underlying reasons and requires a comprehensive assessment.
Ba Zhen Wan is a formula that tonifies both Qi and blood, primarily used for conditions of Qi and blood deficiency.
Symptoms that may indicate its use include pale or sallow complexion, dizziness, fatigue in the limbs, shortness of breath, reduced appetite, non-healing sores, and palpitations.
It is essential to have the aforementioned symptoms present to justify its use.
In my opinion, hair loss and premature graying may not necessarily be caused by Qi and blood deficiency; they could also be attributed to what TCM refers to as "heat toxin." I recommend that you discuss your condition with your TCM practitioner to determine the appropriate treatment.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Hou Yu-Chang
Attending Physician, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2021/10/03

More Info

When considering the use of Ba Zhen Wan in a child with elevated ANA (antinuclear antibody) levels, it is essential to approach the situation with caution. Ba Zhen Wan is a traditional Chinese herbal formula often used to nourish the blood and improve overall health. However, the presence of high ANA levels indicates an autoimmune response, which could suggest underlying conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders.

In children, elevated ANA levels can be associated with various autoimmune diseases, and the implications of these results should be carefully evaluated by a healthcare professional. The use of Ba Zhen Wan in this context may not be straightforward. While the formula is generally considered safe for many individuals, its effects on autoimmune conditions are not well-studied, and there could be potential interactions with other medications, such as quinine and new-type immunosuppressants that the child is currently taking.

Quinine, for example, is primarily used to treat malaria and can have various side effects, including potential impacts on blood cell counts and interactions with other medications. The addition of Ba Zhen Wan could complicate the clinical picture, especially if the child is experiencing hair loss and other symptoms that may be related to an autoimmune condition.
Furthermore, the presence of white hair in a young child can be concerning and may warrant further investigation. While some children may have genetic predispositions to premature graying, it can also be associated with nutritional deficiencies or underlying health issues, including autoimmune disorders.
Before introducing any new herbal supplements or traditional remedies like Ba Zhen Wan, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about both conventional and alternative medicine. They can provide guidance based on the child’s specific health status, the underlying cause of the elevated ANA levels, and any potential risks associated with combining treatments.

In summary, while Ba Zhen Wan may offer benefits in certain contexts, its use in a child with high ANA levels and ongoing treatment for other conditions should be approached with caution. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to ensure the safety and appropriateness of any additional treatments. It is also important to monitor the child’s overall health and response to current medications, as well as any changes in symptoms, to provide the best possible care.

Similar Q&A

Can Children Take Ginseng? Understanding Its Effects on Growth and Allergies

Doctor: Hello! My son is 11 years old and 135 cm tall. He has an allergic constitution, experiencing symptoms such as a runny nose in the morning and occasional itchy eyes and nose. He is currently spending the summer at his grandmother's house in the south. His grandmother ...

Dr. Huang Yicheng reply Pharmacology
The effects and indications of ginseng primarily include tonifying qi, stabilizing the body, strengthening the spleen, benefiting the lungs, calming the mind, enhancing intelligence, nourishing blood, and generating fluids. It is rarely used alone and is typically combined with o...

How to Address Poor Appetite in 18-Month-Old Children?

Doctor Zhang, my 18-month-old child has a poor appetite and weighs only a little over 11 kilograms. How should I address this? A friend suggested giving my child Ba Bao Fen (a traditional Chinese medicine). Is this advisable? Thank you.

Dr. Zhang Peixin reply Pediatrics
Hello: 1. Eight Treasure Powder is a traditional Chinese medicine, and its use should be minimized unless necessary. 2. If you are dissatisfied with your weight, please consider the following actions: (1) Record your growth curve data from childhood to present and consult a physi...

Dietary Considerations for Children with Arrhythmia: TCM Insights

The child is currently a middle school student with arrhythmia and has an implanted cardioverter-defibrillator. The heart rate is on the higher side. I would like to ask the doctor if the child can consume dishes like ginger duck, medicinal herbal pork ribs, and lamb stew. Are th...

Dr. Hou Yuchang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Mrs. Chen: Hello, currently, the literature on traditional Chinese medicine indicates that the herbs "Fuzi" (Aconiti Radix) and "Wutou" (Aconiti Carmichaeli Radix) are more likely to cause arrhythmias. I recommend that if you have a habit of using traditional ...

Is Red Date and Goji Berry Tea Safe for My Kids with Hepatitis B?

Can I give my five-year-old and one-year-old children tea made from red dates and goji berries? Both children have hepatitis B, but their overall health is relatively good.

Dr. Ding Hanxiang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello: Generally, people often add astragalus to enhance resistance and immunity, particularly suitable for those with a constitution that tends to be deficient and cold, who may have symptoms like nasal allergies or are prone to colds. However, you mentioned that the child'...