The role of MRI when relapsing polychondritis is suspected but not proven

Relapsing polychondritis (RP), while relatively rare, presents a characteristic clinical picture. Based upon a symptom complex of auricular, nasal, and respiratory chondritis associated with ocular and otic complaints, diagnosis can frequently be made with confidence in the absence of histologic confirmation. We present a case where a therapeutic intervention was required without sufficient criteria for diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) proved useful in initial evaluation and allowed follow-up imaging demonstrating a gratifying response to steroid treatment. We believe that MRI has an important role in the diagnosis and subsequent evaluation of patients with proven or suspected RP, particularly those with tracheal involvement.