Head & neck
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Case Reports
A new role for magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of laryngeal relapsing polychondritis.
Relapsing polychondritis involving the upper airway is a rare cause of airflow obstruction and hoarseness. The diagnosis of relapsing polychondritis depends on clinical signs, characteristic findings on cartilage biopsy, and response to treatment. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can increase the morbidity and mortality of the disease. ⋯ This case demonstrates the usefulness of MRI in the diagnosis and management of relapsing polychondritis involving the upper airway.