Polychondritis
Polychondritis Causes
The causes of polychondritis are unknown.
Polychondritis Definition
Polychondritis is an auto-immune disease in which the body's immune system starts to destroy cartilage tissues. It is a disease subclass in Rheumatology.
Polychondritis Symptoms and Signs
All of a patient's cartilage areas may be affected. Many cases shows the effect of the disease in several areas where cartilage is found, while other areas are healthy. Examples of cartilaginous parts that may be affected include the ears, nose, throat, heart valves, and all areas in which cartilage connects musculo-skeletal tissues.
Polychondritis Treatment
Patients are typically treated with medicines to suppress the immune system. However, it often has side effects resulting in the increase the risk of other infections.