A Case of Bilateral Vocal Cord Immobility as a Initial Manifestation of Relapsing Polychondritis

Relapsing polychondritis is a rare multisystem disorder of unknown etiology characterized by episodic recurrent inflammation and degeneration of cartilage and connective tissue. Au toantibodies against cartilaginous collagen may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of the disease. Laryngotracheobronchial involvements are rare but the most severe manifestations of the diseases. Although uncommon, this disease should be noted and included in a differential diagnosis in patients who complain of difficulty breathing. Along with a review of the related literatures, we report here on an unusual case of bilateral vocal cord immobility as an initial manifestation of relapsing polychondritis. � Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg 2011;54:368-71 Key WordsZZRelapsing polychondritis ㆍAuricle ㆍVocal cords.

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