Objective: To discuss the curative efficacy of Qingfei Huazhuo decoction in assisted-treating acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) of phlegm heat obstructing lung syndrome and to investigate its influence on serum superoxide dismutase (SOD)

malondialdehyde (MDA) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Method: One hundred AECOPD patients were randomly divided into the control group (50 cases) and the traditional Chinese medicine group (50 cases) by random number table. Patients in the control group received comprehensive treatment therapy including controlling oxygen therapy

infection resistance

hormone and bronchial relaxation. Based on the treatment of control group

patients in traditional Chinese medicine group added Qingfei Huazhuo decoction

1 does daily. All patients received 2-week treatment. Scores of the main symptoms including cough up phlegm

cough

asthma and pulmonary rales were recorded before and after treatment. Quality of life through respiratory function state and difficulty in breathing questionnaire-modified (PFSDQ-M) were evaluated. The pulmonary function was appraised before and after treatment. Levels of serum SOD

MDA

IL-10 and TNF-α were tested before and after therapy. Result: The clinical effect in traditional Chinese medicine group was superior to that in control group with statistically significant difference (P<0.05). After treatment

scores of cough up phlegm

cough

asthma and pulmonary rales in traditional Chinese medicine group were less than those in control group (P<0.01). Quality of life score in traditional Chinese medicine group was inferior to that in control group (P<0.01). Forced expiratory volume in one second(FEV1) and forced expiratory volume accounted for forced vital capacity(FEV1/FVC) in control group improved

but there was no statistically significant difference. Expected value of FEV1 and FEV1/FVC in control group rose as compared with that before therapy

while the rose degree was higher than that in control group (P<0.01). Levels of serum TNF-α and MDA in traditional Chinese medicine group were lower than those in control group (P<0.01). Besides

the IL-10 and SOD levels were higher than those in control group (P<0.01). Conclusion: Qingfei Huazhuo decoction could reduce clinical symptoms of AECOPD of phlegm heat obstructing lung syndrome

improve lung function and patient's life of quality. The mechanism of action may be related to adjusting oxidation/antioxidant system and inhibiting inflammatory reaction.