To report a rare case of bilateral angle-closure glaucoma as the initial manifestation of relapsing polychondritis (RP) and discuss the significant diagnostic challenges involved.
Key Findings:
Bilateral angle-closure glaucoma can be an initial presentation of relapsing polychondritis, highlighting the need for awareness.
Systemic signs such as fever and sensorineural hearing loss may precede classical symptoms of RP, complicating diagnosis.
Diagnosis of RP was confirmed using the Modified Michet criteria after ruling out other conditions.
Interpretation:
This case emphasizes the need for clinicians to consider relapsing polychondritis in patients presenting with unexplained bilateral angle-closure glaucoma and systemic inflammatory symptoms, to facilitate timely diagnosis.
Limitations:
The rarity of the condition limits generalizability of findings and may lead to misdiagnosis.
The absence of classical signs of RP may delay diagnosis.
Conclusion:
Bilateral angle-closure glaucoma can serve as an atypical presentation of relapsing polychondritis, necessitating a high index of suspicion for timely diagnosis and management in clinical practice.
