Through tracing the origin and research progress of hidden toxin theory

it is believed that the hidden toxin theory and connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease（CTD-ILD） have strong similarities in etiology

pathogenesis and syndrome characteristics. For example

endogenous and exogenous pathogens can be linked to internal and external toxins; the pathogenesis is vital qi deficiency and internally hidden toxin triggered by pathogens; the syndrome characteristics are concealed

lingering

consumed

violent

mixed and varied. On the basis of this theory

treatment for CTD-ILD including strengthening body resistance

benefiting qi

expressing toxin

dissipating phlegm

dredging collateral and detoxication is proposed

and it is discussed by referring to a schematic diagram.