Wegener's granulomatosis and relapsing polychondritis: a case report

Abstract

Relapsing polychondritis, a rare disorder characterized by inflammation of cartilaginous tissue, is often associated with vasculitic features. Wegener's granulomatosis is an uncommon form of vasculitis, usually responsive to treatment with cyclophosphamide. A 59-yr-old man with relapsing polychondritis, initially well controlled by corticosteroid therapy, developed pulmonary infiltrates and glomerulonephritis. After pathological confirmation of Wegener's granulomatosis, cyclophosphamide therapy was instituted and remission achieved.