Explanation of the Concept of Wet Liver Dystemperament (sue-mizaj) in Iranian Traditional Medicine (Persian medicine): A Hybrid Concept Analysis

Abstract

Objectives: The semiology of liver dystemperament can help in predicting susceptibility to some diseases and improving the treatment process of the liver or general disease such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Therefore, the aim of this study was to explain the wet liver dystemperament concept in Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) based on a hybrid concept analysis. Materials and Methods: The literature review of this qualitative study focused on evaluating 11 major academic textbooks from the 3rd to 19th century and some databases. In-depth, semi-structured, and face-to-face interviews were conducted with 16 ITM experts with a minimum of five years of clinical experience and maximum variations in terms of gender, age, and clinical experiences for empirical data gathering. Data were analyzed with MAXQAD10 and conventional content analysis. Results: In this study, wet liver dystemperament was classified into three main themes of systemic, local, and Para-clinical symptoms and 10 categories. Conclusions: This manuscript explains wet liver dystemperament as a disorder in general temperament and determines more important diagnostic criteria.