Relapsing Polychondritis (RP) is a rare and degenerative autoimmune disease that affects cartilage in the body. Not much is known about RP. Relapsing polychondritis (RP) causes a systemic inflammatory response that can be fatal without proper care and treatment. RP primarily affects the cartilaginous structures in the ears, nose, airways, and joints. It can also affect the eyes, skin, heart valves, and brain. It occurs most often in people in their 50s or 60s and is more common in people with white/Caucasian ancestry.
Symptoms of AiArthritis Diseases Regardless of Diagnosis
“Auto” Symptoms
Reference: Early Symptoms of AiArthritis Study, AiArthritis, 2019.
Typically the joint pain will coincide with one or more “Auto” symptoms and start and stop suddenly - for no apparent reason (which is called a "flare"). Some people will experience all of the above symptoms, others only a few. If you have any of the arthritis features, and at least one of the “Auto” features, please consult your physician about a referral to a rheumatologist.
Symptoms Often Associated with Relapsing Polychondritis:
What fellow patients want you to know
Do you have Relapsing Polychondritis? Let us know what YOU would want those with RP or those who are not yet diagnosed to know!
There’s no single definitive test that can confirm a relapsing polychondritis diagnosis, so rheumatologists look at a combination of physical exam, blood tests (ESR, WBC, RBC), and imaging, along with a family history of autoimmune or autoinflammatory disease.
Relapsing polychondritis is diagnosed when a doctor observes at least three of the following symptoms developing over time:
In an effort to ensure this page has the most accurate and up-to-date information, this page is currently awaiting medical review. Some information is subject to change.
Page Last Updated: 9/1/2023
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