Relapsing Polychondritis

Abstract

Two cases of relapsing polychondritis are described, both with a high E.S.R. and without reaction to antibiotics. Both patients are men, 80 and 72 years old and both with malignant disease besides the chondral condition. One case had affection of both external ears with proved histopathological findings. The second case had affection of the cartilages in the larynx, trachea, nose and sterno-costal joints—and sclerokeratitis. According to the literature, the characteristic of the disease is inflammation of the cartilages, most frequently in the external ears, nose, airways and sterno-costal joints—as well as inflammation in the eyes. Pathognomonic laboratory findings are missing, but a high E.S.R. is the rule. Exacerbations and remissions are typical. The etiology is unknown— auto-immunity has been discussed, as also has enzymatic disorder. Corticosteroids are effective and prevent dramatic obstructions of the airways and destruction of cartilage.