Infliximab in relapsing polychondritis.
Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare systemic disease of unknown etiology, characterized by recurrent inflammation of cartilaginous structures and other connective tissues, including the ears, nose, joints, respiratory tract, and others. Due to the presence of typical signs and symptoms, biopsy is seldom necessary. Treatment includes corticosteroids, occasionally associated with immunosuppressive agents, but refractory cases are described. Recent reports suggest that anti-TNF agents, such as infliximab, may be of value in patients who do not respond to conventional therapy, but experience with this treatment is scarce. In this paper, the authors report the case of a patient with RP refractory to combined treatment with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents, who showed a good response to infliximab.
39th Rheumatology Ward, Santa Casa da Misericórdia do Rio de Janeiro.
Ana Paula Soares
AP
de Barros
Nilton Akeshi
NA
Nakamura
Thiara de Freitas Borges
Tde F
Santana
Janaina Queiroz dos Santos
JQ
Motta
Washington Alves
WA
Bianchi
D000328:Adult; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D000069285:Infliximab; D011081:Polychondritis, Relapsing / Q000188:drug therapy*
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D000069285:Infliximab