Inflammation of cartilage and other connective tissues occurs recurrently in Relapsing Polychondritis, a rare autoimmune disorder. In this article, we explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Relapsing Polychondritis in various parts of the body, including the ears, nose, joints, and respiratory tract.
There is no known cause for Relapsing Polychondritis, but it is thought to be caused by an abnormal immune response in which the body's immune system attacks healthy cartilage and connective tissues. Predisposing factors may include genetics and environmental factors.
Relapsing Polychondritis symptoms can vary depending on the area of the body affected. Common symptoms include:
Auricular chondritis is an inflammation and pain in the ears, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and tenderness.
Flattening or collapsing of the nose due to nasal inflammation (saddle nose deformity)
The symptoms of arthritis include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
Tracheobronchial chondritis (inflammation of the airway cartilage) causes symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.
Inflammation of the eyes (conjunctivitis), dry eyes, or sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Rashes on the arms, legs, or trunk of the body
In severe cases of heart or blood vessel inflammation, chest pain or palpitations may occur
Relapsing Polychondritis is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Diagnostic procedures may include:
Physical examination: Checking for signs of cartilage inflammation, such as auricular chondritis or saddle nose deformities.
Testing for inflammation, autoimmune antibodies, or other abnormalities in the blood.
X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans can be used to assess cartilage inflammation and structural damage.
A biopsy is used to confirm the presence of inflammation and rule out other conditions by removing a small sample of affected tissue for pathological examination.
Inflammation is controlled, symptoms are relieved, and complications are prevented with treatment for Relapsing Polychondritis. Common treatments include:
Acute flare-ups are often treated with oral or intravenous corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
Patients with severe or refractory symptoms may be prescribed immunosuppressive medications, such as methotrexate, azathioprine, or cyclophosphamide.
Pain and inflammation may be reduced with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
In certain cases, biologic agents, such as TNF-alpha inhibitors or interleukin-1 antagonists, may be used to target specific inflammatory pathways.
Symptom management may also include therapies to manage specific symptoms, such as nasal splints or prostheses for nasal deformities, or supportive measures for respiratory or cardiovascular complications.
Relapsing polychondritis can be prevented by:
People with Relapsing Polychondritis should avoid triggers that may worsen their symptoms, such as exposure to cold temperatures, trauma to the affected areas, or certain medications.
In order to detect and manage flare-ups promptly, it is essential that individuals with Relapsing Polychondritis receive regular medical monitoring.
Exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management can support overall immune function and reduce the risk of disease exacerbations if maintained.
