ENT 2026

Relapsing polychondritis (RPC) is a rare multisystem autoimmune disorder characterized by recurrent inflammation of cartilaginous structures. It presents with a broad spectrum of manifestations, including permanent auricular deformities, ocular involvement, tracheolaryngeal collapse, and cardiac complications, any of which may lead to life-threatening sequelae. Owing to its nonspecific and variable clinical presentation, RPC is frequently misdiagnosed by non-rheumatologists, particularly otorhinolaryngologists.This report presents a case of relapsing polychondritis in a 30-year-old Filipino male. Initially misdiagnosed as acute perichondritis, the patient’s clinical presentation, including profound bilateral hearing loss and ocular involvement, ultimately led to the diagnosis of RPC. Co-managed with the Department of Rheumatology and Ophthalmology, auricular chondritis resolved and ocular manifestations improved after steroid and immunomodulator therapy for 6 months. However, profound hearing loss persisted.The case highlights the importance of early recognition, timely initiation of appropriate therapy, and a multidisciplinary approach to mitigate severe disease progression.

Jannine Christine Grace E. Sarmiento, a third-year resident in Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center in La Union, Philippines, manages diverse ENT cases under experienced consultants.Maria Luisa Pasahol, a fellow of the Philippine Society of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, completed her subspecialty training in Laryngology at the University of California, Davis Health in Sacramento, California. She leads the laryngology subspecialty at the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center, with regional hospital affiliations.