Evaluation of aerobic capacity and muscle function in a case series of patients with relapsing polychondritis

Abstract

Background: To evaluate aerobic capacity and muscle function in patients with Relapsing Polychondritis (RP). Methods:A cross-sectional single center study evaluated seven women with RP (McAdam criteria) that were compared to seven healthy control individuals matched for age, gender, and body mass index. Both groups performed a treadmill-graded maximal exercise. Aerobic capacity was assessed by peak oxygen uptake (VO 2 peak), time at anaerobic Ventilatory Threshold (VAT) and Respiratory Compensation Point (RCP) and time-to-exhaustion. Muscle function was evaluated through the sit-to-stand and the timed up-and-go test.Results: RP patients had an average age of 52.7 years. Disease was stable with at least one immunosuppressive drug and without glucocorticoid. Patients showed an impaired aerobic capacity characterized by lower VO 2 peak (relative and absolute), and lower time-to-exhaustion. Furthermore, patients had also a tendency to impairment in lower extremities muscle function, when compared with control group. Main fi ndings:In the present study, patients with RP show a tendency to impaired aerobic capacity and lower extremities muscle function when compared with healthy individuals. Further studies should confi rm the present fi ndings.