[Efficacy of three-dimensional computed tomography for evaluating airway tract involvement in patients with relapsing polychondritis].

The airway tract involvement is known to be one of the most important prognostic factors in patients with relapsing polychondritis (RP). Sequential evaluations of airway tract involvements are necessary, however, the insertion of flexible bronchoscope into the affected airway tract may exacerbate their airway tract stenosis. Three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) showed stenosis of the trachea and bilateral main bronchi in 2 patients with RP. 3D-CT is an effective non-invasive method for evaluating airway tract involvement in RP.