Relapsing Polychondritis with Auricular and Ocular Involvement: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare, immune-mediated systemic disorder with an estimated prevalence of 4.5 to 20 cases per million population. It is characterized by recurrent inflammation of cartilaginous and proteoglycan-rich tissues, particularly affecting the auricles, nasal cartilage, respiratory tract, eyes, and joints. Due to its rarity and variable presentation, diagnosis is often delayed, and misdiagnosis can lead to irreversible complications. We report the case of a 48-year-old male with a two-year history of recurrent bilateral auricular chondritis, nasal pain without deformity, ocular inflammation (scleritis), and arthralgias. The diagnosis was made clinically, supported by elevated inflammatory markers (CRP 50 mg/L) and exclusion of autoimmune and infectious differentials through an extensive immunological workup. The patient responded favorably to corticosteroid therapy. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of characteristic features of RP, particularly auricular chondritis with lobular sparing, in facilitating timely diagnosis and treatment. Given the lack of standardized diagnostic biomarkers and the limited evidence from controlled trials, future research should aim to identify reliable diagnostic tools and evaluate targeted therapies in larger cohorts.