What is it about?
The usefulness of ultrasonography (US) for relapsing polychondritis (RP) remains unclear, although musculoskeletal US has been demonstrated to be a useful tool in rheumatology. We reported the results of ultrasonography of RP auricular chondritis, arthritis, and tenosynovitis, discussed its interpretation and usefulness.
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Why is it important?
1) Approaches from the front and from the rear are advantageous for analyzing the anthelix and concha auriculae, respectively. 2) As the auricle is sandwiched between air layers, it is important not to regard the virtual image as the real image. 3) Subcutaneous tissue of RP auricular chondritis with reduced echogenicity should be distinguished from anechoic cartilage. 4) PD signals for RP auricular chondritis are located in the subcutaneous tissue, but not in the cartilage, at least in the early stage. 5) Tenosynovitis in RP may occur commonly when evaluating musculoskeletal manifestations of RP by US.
Perspectives
Since the auricle has a special anatomical structure, we need to pay special attention when we perform ultrasonography (US) of auricle. I hope that you understand the important points and pitfalls for performing US examinations of relapsing polychondritis (RP) and that US is utilized for daily practice of RP.
Satoshi Shinohara
Tochigi Rhuematology Clinic
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: The benefits of ultrasonography in diagnosing and assessing auricular chondritis, arthritis, and tenosynovitis in patients with relapsing polychondritis, Modern Rheumatology Case Reports, July 2018, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1080/24725625.2018.1492510.
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