Understanding Relapsing Polychondritis
Relapsing polychondritis is a rare, chronic disease characterized by recurrent inflammation of cartilage and other tissues throughout the body. Although it primarily affects the cartilage in the ears, nose, joints, and respiratory tract, relapsing polychondritis is a very heterogeneous disease that can impact other organs as well.
Symptoms include pain, redness, and swelling, and over time, inflammation can cause progressive damage to the affected cartilage, potentially resulting in deformities and functional impairments.
University of Maryland Relapsing Polychondritis Program
At the University of Maryland in Baltimore, we have established a dedicated clinical program to help patients manage and improve their condition. Our multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient's unique needs, focusing on alleviating symptoms and enhancing quality of life.
Advancing Understanding and Treatment of Relapsing Polychondritis
The etiology of most types of relapsing polychondritis remains unknown, and it is likely that this condition encompasses more than one disease. Despite being a new initiative, our program is deeply committed to advancing research to uncover the underlying mechanisms, improve diagnostic methods, and develop more effective treatments. We are actively planning to secure the necessary resources to achieve these goals. Our efforts include expanding our understanding of the disease and collaborating with world-renowned experts and institutions to ensure our patients benefit from the latest discoveries and therapeutic strategies.
Support
Support for Patients
Patients with Relapsing Polychondritis have created a supportive community through multiple Facebook groups.
A website dedicated to patients with relapsing polychondritis, featuring links, videos, and comprehensive information, will be launching soon!!!
For Patients with Relapsing Polychondritis
Support for Physicians
Programs in the United States Evaluating Patients with Relapsing Polychondritis:
University of Pennsylvania https://www.med.upenn.edu/pennvasculitis/penn-rp-program.html
To make appointments call: 215-662-2454
National Institutes of Health
https://www.niams.nih.gov/labs/grayson-lab
Cleveland Clinic
https://my.clevelandclinic.org
To make appointments call: 216-444-2606