Severe relapsing polychondritis occurring after ear piercing

J Rheumatol. 2003 Dec;30(12):2716-7.

Abstract

We describe a case of relapsing polychondritis with laryngo-tracheal involvement, occurring after ear piercing in a 39-year-old woman. Polychondritis was clearly time-related to ear piercing. This association draws attention to the risk of relapsing polychondritis during body art practices with cartilage trauma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cosmetic Techniques / adverse effects*
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Ear Cartilage / pathology*
  • Ear Deformities, Acquired / etiology
  • Ear Deformities, Acquired / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Methotrexate / therapeutic use
  • Polychondritis, Relapsing / drug therapy
  • Polychondritis, Relapsing / etiology
  • Polychondritis, Relapsing / pathology*
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use
  • Punctures / adverse effects*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Prednisone
  • Methotrexate