What laboratory data support the diagnosis of Relapsing Polychondritis?
Laboratory abnormalities are nonspecific and generally reflective of an inflammatory state: elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)/C-reactive protein (CRP), leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, chronic anemia, and increased alpha and gamma globulins. Low titers of rheumatoid factor, antinuclear antibody, and ANCA may be seen. Antibodies to type II collagen have been found in approximately 30% to 40% of patients at the time of diagnosis (low sensitivity); these antibodies have also been reported in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and psoriatic arthritis among others.
