About Relapsing Polychondritis
Relapsing Polychondritis is a rare systemic autoimmune disease characterized by episodic and progressive inflammation of cartilaginous structures throughout the body, including auricular, nasal, laryngotracheal, and articular cartilage, as well as proteoglycan-rich structures of the eye, inner ear, and cardiovascular system. The immunopathogenesis involves autoantibodies against type II collagen and matrilin-1, combined with T-cell mediated cartilage destruction. Without adequate treatment, tracheobronchomalacia from airway cartilage destruction represents the most life-threatening complication.
Common Clinical Features
Clinical Trial Eligibility Tips
What to know before applying to Relapsing Polychondritis trials.
Diagnostic criteria (McAdam or modified Damiani) fulfillment should be documented; biopsy confirmation of chondritis significantly strengthens trial eligibility where pathology is requested
Airway involvement severity (spirometry, CT trachea, bronchoscopy findings) is a key stratification variable in trials; current pulmonary function tests are essential
Concurrent myelodysplastic syndrome occurs in 10-30% of RP patients and may affect eligibility; bone marrow biopsy results should be available if cytopenias are present
Patient Resources
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