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Relapsing polychondritis — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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HardVasculitisRelapsing polychondritisSCE Rheumatology

A 54-year-old man has recurrent painful swelling of both ears sparing the lobes, nasal bridge tenderness and hoarseness. CT neck shows tracheal wall thickening and spirometry suggests fixed upper airway obstruction. ESR is 69 mm/hour. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Relapsing polychondritis

Auricular chondritis sparing the lobule with nasal and airway cartilage involvement is typical of relapsing polychondritis. GPA can affect ENT and airway but does not classically cause recurrent pinna chondritis sparing the lobule. Airway disease is a major complication and should be actively assessed.

Reference: BSR rheumatology curriculum; EULAR vasculitis recommendations