Relapsing polychondritis

Relapsing polychondritis is a rare, progressive and potentially fatal disease affecting the cartilaginous tissues like ears, nose, laryngotracheal tree and joints. Proteoglycan-rich structures like eyes, heart, blood vessels and inner ear are also affected. The common manifestations are auricular and nasal chondritis and nonerosive arthritis. Due to the rarity of the disease, the diagnosis is often delayed due to lack of awareness. Relapsing polychondritis disease activity index has recently been developed and may help in monitoring disease activity thus resulting in better patient outcomes. The treatment depends on the extent and severity of disease, with minor manifestations requiring only NSAIDS and the organ/life-threatening manifestations requiring immunosuppression with corticosteroids ± cytotoxic drugs. Newer biological agents may be helpful in refractory disease.