Relapsing polychondritis is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of inflammation and destruction of cartilaginous tissues, particularly affecting the ears, nose, joints, and respiratory tract. This clinical vignette on relapsing polychondritis aims to help residents in recognizing and diagnosing this complex condition. Through this case, users will learn about the clinical features of relapsing polychondritis, its differential diagnosis, and appropriate diagnostic and management strategies.
This vignette is an excellent resource for residents preparing for OSCE-style examinations and can also be used as a self-directed learning tool for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in managing relapsing polychondritis.
We invite you to explore the associated learning module and quizzes to reinforce your knowledge and test your understanding of this important topic.
Sources
- Berkow R, Merck Research Laboratories. The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy. Seventeenth edition. Centennial ed. (Beers MH, ed.). Whitehouse Station, N.J.: Merck Research Laboratories, division of Merck & Co; 1999.
- Bolognia, J., Schaffer, J. V., & Cerroni, L. (2018). Dermatology (4th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier.
- Treatment of relapsing polychondritis, Jane Hoyt Buckner, MD, UpToDate, https://www-uptodate-com.proxy3.library.mcgill.ca/contents/treatment-of-relapsing-polychondritis?search=management%20relapsing%20polychondritis&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~37&usage_type=default&display_rank=1, Accessed March 29th, 2023

Release Date: April 18th 2023
Last Updated: April 18th 2023
Time to complete: 30 minutes
Authors:
- Dr. Zeinah Alhalees, MD, University of British Columbia.
- Dr. Mathieu Powell, MD, McGill University.
- Dr. Elena Netchiporouk, MD, McGill University