Relapsing Polychondritis - Diagnosis

Diagnosis

There is no specific test for replasing polychondritis. Patient presented with acute episode often has high level of inflammatory markers (erythrocyte sedimentation rate or c-reactive protein, ESR or CRP). Biopsy of the cartilage tissue (for example, ear) shows tissue inflammation and destruction, and may help with the diagnosis. McAdam criteria is often used to establish the diagnosis. Clinicians look for the following six signs: (1) red, swollen ear during acute phase, deformed ear after acute inflammation; (2) red, swollen, and stiff joints; (3) inflammation and/or deformity of cartilage of the nose, often resulting in saddle deformity; (4) inflammation of the eye; (5) inflammation and/or deformity of the cartilage supporting the upper airway (trachea); (6) damage to the cartilage in the inner ear, resulting in hearing loss. The diagnosis is made if 3 or more of the above signs are present, together with confirmation from the biopsy.