Longitudinal Study for Relapsing Polychondritis
University of Pennsylvania
Summary
Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare systemic inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent inflammation of cartilage including ears, nose, tracheobronchial tree, chest wall and joints. Less commonly, it can cause inflammation of eyes, vasculature, nervous system, skin and inner ear. The purpose of this study is to study the pathogenesis of RP.
Description
Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare systemic inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent inflammation of cartilage including ears, nose, tracheobronchial tree, chest wall and joints. Less commonly, it can cause inflammation of eyes, vasculature, nervous system, skin and inner ear. There is variability in organ-system involvement and the disease course is relapsing making the diagnosis challenging. Delay in diagnosis can lead to end-organ damage and significant morbidity and mortality. There are no biomarkers or blood tests that can assist with assignment of a diagnosis. Development of…
Eligibility
- Age range
- Not specified
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * 1\. Any subject considered to have a diagnosis of relapsing polychondritis according to the investigator. Exclusion Criteria: * 1\. Inability to provide consent, or in the case of minors, assent.
Location
- University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania