Ocular Inflammation as the First Sign of Relapsing Polychondritis in Hispanic Patients: Report of Three Cases

Abstract

Background: Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare inflammatory systemic disease characterized by recurrent inflammatory episodes of cartilaginous and proteoglycan-rich tissues, particularly ears, nose, respiratory tract, eyes, and joints. Purpose: To present the clinical features, management, and prognosis of three Hispanic patients presenting with RP and ocular involvement as the first manifestation of the disease. Conclusion: This study extends the knowledge regarding ocular disease characteristics in patients with RP. Furthermore, it increases ophthalmologists’ awareness of the findings, leading to earlier diagnoses and adequate treatment for improved patients’ prognoses.