How is Relapsing Polychondritis diagnosed?
The diagnosis of Relapsing Polychondritis is based on a series of clinical criteria, which include episodes of inflammation involving cartilage structures. The diagnosis can be further confirmed by taking a biopsy of the affected cartilage for pathologic examination. No blood test has yet been developed that is diagnostic for RP. Who gets RP? RP is an uncommon disease that affects approximately 3-5 individuals per million people. RP affects both men and women. It can affect individuals of all ages, it has been described in childhood and beginning as late as age 80, but most frequently occurs midlife. What causes RP? It is not known what causes this disease. But it is thought to be an autoimmune disease. This means that it is caused by the immune system attacking the body, and causing inflammation and tissue destruction. What happens to patients with RP? Patients with RP may have some of the problems below: · Inflammation of cartilage: · The ears and/or the nose may become swollen, red,
