Relapsing Polychondritis
Rheumatology · Other Rheumatologic Diseases · study mode — pick an answer, then reveal.
A 52-year-old woman presents with her third episode in 8 months of a painful, red, swollen right ear lasting several days. Examination shows marked erythema and edema of the helix and antihelix with complete sparing of the lobule. Which of the following best explains why the lobule is unaffected?
A 63-year-old man carries a diagnosis of relapsing polychondritis based on recurrent auricular and nasal chondritis. He remains glucocorticoid-dependent despite methotrexate. Labs: hemoglobin 9.8 g/dL, MCV 106 fL, platelets 108,000/µL, ESR 112 mm/h. He reports recurrent fevers and has had two episodes of periorbital edema. Which of the following is the most appropriate next diagnostic step?
A 47-year-old woman with established relapsing polychondritis reports 2 weeks of a gritty, burning, red right eye. Which of the following is the most common type of ocular inflammation in relapsing polychondritis?
A 45-year-old woman with relapsing polychondritis reports 6 months of progressive exertional dyspnea, cough, and wheezing. Two trials of inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting bronchodilator therapy for presumed adult-onset asthma have provided no relief. Which of the following is the most appropriate study to establish the cause of her symptoms?
A 58-year-old man with newly diagnosed relapsing polychondritis presents with stridor and CT-confirmed subglottic stenosis. After securing the airway, which of the following is the most appropriate initial pharmacologic therapy?