RELAPSING POLYCHONDRITIS - REPORT OF AN UNUSUAL CASE AND A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Relapsing polychondritis is an uncommon multisystem disorder, characterized by recurrent inflammation of cartilage at multiple sites, which can go unrecognized until classical signs of cartilage destruction occur. Destruction of the cartilage of the external ears and nose is easy to recognize. Central airway involvement is more difficult to recognize, but more important in terms of prognosis. Neurological symptoms and signs are uncommon, have been infrequently reported and may lead to incorrect diagnosis and delay in treatment. A case of relapsing polychondritis presenting as an acute encephalitis is described. The use of computed tomography (CT) in determining the presence and severity of central airway involvement is discussed.