Multiple endobronchial airway stents in a case of relapsing polychondritis - A rare entity

Abstract

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare multisystem condition. Nearly 50% of patients are suffering from airway involvement in RP and it can be fatal. Besides immunotherapies, endobronchial stenting has been found to be useful in the treatment. Insertion of endobronchial stents in patients with RP has it’s own complications and has been associated with increasing morbidity and mortality. We describe placement of multiple endobronchial stents to prevent airway closure in a 76-year-old man with RP due to recurrent dyspnea. Insertion of multiple stents (6th stent) in the left main bronchus was necessary due to severe narrowing of the left main bronchus. Recurrence of airway involvement in RP is common. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential to reduce the risk of life-threatening airway collapse. The insertion of multiple stents in this patient has resulted in improving symptoms, spirometry, and a return to daily activities.