IgA nephropathy (IgAN) ranks among the most prevalent primary glomerular diseases. In traditional Chinese medicine, therapies aimed at supplementing qi, dispelling wind, and promoting blood circulation are frequently employed to manage this condition. Nevertheless, prior research is limited by small sample sizes, making it challenging to draw firm conclusions. This study performed a meta-analysis to systematically evaluate the clinical effectiveness of this approach and provide comprehensive evidence supporting its use. A systematic search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the use of qi-supplementing, wind-dispelling, and blood-activating interventions for IgAN was conducted across CNKI, Wanfang Data, Chongqing VIP, SinoMed, PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases from inception through January 2022. Studies were screened according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, ultimately identifying 15 eligible trials. The quality of these studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (Cochrane Handbook 5.4). Outcome data were extracted, and meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software.
Fifteen trials were included in the analysis. Pooled data revealed that interventions based on qi supplementation, wind dispelling, and blood activation significantly improved the total effective rate [odds ratio = 3.95, 95% CI 2.76–5.67] and reduced 24-hour urinary protein levels (mean difference = −0.35, 95% CI −0.54 to −0.16) as well as serum creatinine (mean difference = −15.41, 95% CI −28.39 to −2.44). These treatments did not negatively affect alanine transaminase, hemoglobin, or serum albumin levels, indicating a favorable safety profile. The YQH therapeutic approach demonstrates significant benefits for patients with IgAN, including improved renal function and decreased proteinuria, compared to conventional non-Chinese medicine treatments. These results provide strong support for incorporating this method into clinical practice for IgAN management.
