부산대학교 도서관

A case of relapsing polychondritis, a 49-year-old female, is reported. Predominant symtpoms were dyspnea and sticky sputum.Chest X-ray revealed narrowing of trachea and bronchi. Elevated ESR, 6+ of CRP and elevated IgM, IgA, but normal IgE were recorded. Pulmonary function showed obstructive disorder with a flow rate of V50 and V25.Autopsy revealed loss and dissolution of cartilaginous tissues of the trachea, bronchi, larynx, epiglottis, sternum and rib. Bronchial glandules were hypertrophic and bronchi were obstructed by sticky sputum. This sticky sputum and narrowing of air tracts, both played important roles in the prognosis of this patient.