Publication:

Relapsing polychondritis: a case report

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is an immune-mediated systemic disease characterized by recurrent attacks of inflammation of cartilage and proteoglycan-rich tissues, resulting in progressive anatomical deformation and functional impairment in the affected areas. It may for a long time cause unspecific signs,which may cause a significant delay in establishing the diagnosis and initiating the right treatment. We present the case of a 49 year old male who came to our clinic with a two month history of worsening pain, swelling, and erythema of his left ear auricle. He reported tenderness and warmth over the pinna, along with fever and malaise. The patient was diagnosed with RP and started steroids which are the first choice of therapy. The aim of this case is to emphasize the critical need for timely identification of RP in order to start the appropriate treatment and prevent future complications.