Auricular repair: symphony between scaffolds and stem cells.

Cartilage grafts are essential in rhinoplasty, particularly in revision cases that require structural support. Fresh frozen cartilage allografts (FFCA) have been proposed as an alternative to autografts to avoid donor site morbidity; however, their biological properties remain insufficiently studied. This study aimed to evaluate the histopathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of FFCA compared with autograft cartilage in a rabbit model, focusing on antigenicity, cellular viability, inflammation, and fibrovascular integration. Eight adult New Zealand white rabbits underwent bilateral auricular cartilage harvesting. The right ear cartilage from each rabbit was immediately implanted subcutaneously into its own paraspinal region as an autograft. The left ear cartilage was cryopreserved at -80 °C for two weeks and subsequently implanted as an FFCA into the paraspinal region of the next consecutively numbered rabbit. All grafts were harvested and analyzed histologically after three months. Both groups exhibited preserved cartilage architecture and fibrovascular integration. No significant differences were observed in graft resorption, fibrosis, or calcification (p > 0.05). However, FFCA showed a significant reduction in viable chondrocytes (p < 0.05) and lower glial fibrillary acidic protein expression, suggesting diminished cellular activity. Despite maintaining structural stability, FFCA demonstrated reduced biological viability compared with autografts. FFCA preserves structural integrity and integrates with surrounding tissue but exhibits lower cellular viability than autografts. While it may represent a useful alternative in rhinoplasty, further studies are required to optimize preservation techniques and assess long-term outcomes. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

The constricted ear, also known as cup ear or lop ear, is visually characterized by the curling and lidding of the helix. As the deformity intensifies, it also involves structural abnormalities of the antihelix, scapha, and triangular fossa, resulting in the auricle presenting a lidding, protrusion, decreased vertical height and low position appearance. Exploring a cost-effective treatment strategy for all Tanzer types of constricted ears remains a significant challenge. Thirty-four patients with unilateral constricted ears who underwent surgical correction from January 2020 to January 2023 were enrolled in this study. Among them, there were two cases of Tanzer I, twenty-nine cases of Tanzer II, and three cases of Tanzer III. All patients were treated by using affected ear local skin flap and costal cartilage grafting technology, and their complications, aesthetic outcomes, and satisfaction were reviewed. On a scale of symmetry, size, shape, and scarring, the average aesthetic score was 3.8 and all patients were satisfied with the corrective outcomes and overall appearance. Most patients showed transient edema and recovered at about 1 month after the surgery. No other complications were observed during the follow-up. Our method maximizes the use of affected ear cartilage and skin through a simple incision, and with the assistance of single rib cartilage, each type of Tanzer constricted ear can be corrected effectively through a single procedure. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Surgical intervention on the nose is a complex of operations aimed at restoring the anatomical and physiological structure of the nose. Traditionally, various methods are used in nasal surgery: the use of the patient's own tissues (autoplastic operations), implantation of biomaterials taken from other people (alloplastic operations), or synthetic or artificial materials to eliminate defects. However, the number of autogenous cartilages is limited, not to mention that additional incisions inevitably occur during the extraction of ear cartilage and rib cartilage, which can lead to complications in the donor area. Tissue engineering, which has been actively developing for many years, represents a promising approach to the reconstruction of tissues and organs, including the nose. Recently, there has been increased interest in creating new tissues and skeletons for organs using 3D printing technology. This technology allows precise control of the microarchitecture and internal structure, which creates ideal conditions for cell population. There are only a few studies devoted to tissue engineering of cartilage tissue, the use of stem cells and growth factors for this purpose. This review provides basic information about available research on standard surgical approaches, as well as the use of stem cells, biomaterials and three-dimensional printing for nasal reconstruction.

Fabrication of the auricular framework is a key aspect of ear reconstruction. The use of autologous rib cartilage, which is considered an ideal grafting material, can minimize harvesting damage and optimize its use. This study introduces a method that combines both rib and ear cartilages to reconstruct the auricular framework using an anterior auricular approach, which can help achieve optimal results. Between 2020 and 2024, 153 patients with microtia underwent ear reconstruction using a hybrid framework of autologous rib and ear cartilage. Reconstruction was performed through a preauricular incision. Postoperative evaluations focused on the morphology and aesthetics of the reconstructed ears, as well as patient satisfaction. The average follow-up period for this study was 28.94 ± 5.42 months. Plastic surgeons assessed the morphology of the reconstructed ears, and the results were as follows: 90 (58.8%), 60 (39.2%), and three (1.9%) ears had excellent, good, and fair morphologies, respectively. The preoperative visual analog scale (VAS) satisfaction score was 0.17 ± 0.38, which significantly improved to 8.45 ± 0.94 postoperatively. All the patients expressed satisfaction with their reconstructed ears. There were no significant differences in ear length, width, or circumference between the reconstructed ears and their contralateral counterparts postoperatively (P = 0.080, P = 0.054, and P = 0.051, respectively). Ear reconstruction using hybrid frameworks of autologous rib and ear cartilage performed via preauricular incisions optimally utilizes the residual ear tissue, minimizes tissue damage, and results in aesthetically favorable reconstructed ears with well-defined substructures and high patient satisfaction.

AimUnderstanding the external ear’s anatomy and the ear nerve blocks (particularly in the external acoustic meatus) is crucial for facilitating effective ear movement and treating clinical cases requiring an ear nerve block. The purpose of this study was to describe the anatomical cartilages and muscular structures of the outer ear and to investigate the appropriate anatomical location of the major nerves supplying the ear in dromedary camels.MethodsThe study was conducted on 12 adult male and female dromedary camel heads of different breeds, obtained from the Buraydah slaughterhouse. The standard dissection technique was employed by placing the samples in a 10% formalin solution before dissecting them using approved dissection tools.ResultsThe findings demonstrated that the auricle of camels has a particular structure. The muscles were organized into four groups: rostral, dorsal, ventral, and caudal. In addition, three cartilages were identified, along with the anatomical location of the auricular nerves. Based on anatomical and ultrasonographic landmarks, the injection sites for the internal and great auricular nerve blocks were determined at the lateral side of the base of the auricular cartilage and at the base of the pinna on its caudal side, respectively.ConclusionThe study provides detailed information about the ear pinna, cartilages, and muscles of the camel, with a particular focus on the auricular nerve block method. These findings can serve as a guide future for clinical and surgical procedures involving the camel’s ear.

Introduction. Deformity of the auricle is not a disease, but it can cause aesthetic, social, and mental disorders. Timely correction of deformations using modern techniques can eliminate undesirable consequences, but the search for the "ideal variant" of surgical intervention is still ongoing and it is the basis for further scientific research in this field. Aim. To increase the effectiveness of surgical treatment in patients with auricular deformities. Materials and methods. A total of 38 patients with deformation of the auricle took part in the study. They were divided into 2 groups for performing otoplasty by resection and non-resection methods. The distribution of patients by gender and age was approximately the same, with a predominance of women over men in both groups. Only adult patients who did not have previous otoplasty and secondary deformations of the auricle were selected for surgical intervention to correct auricle deformities. Patients with "Dumbo ears" syndrome were selected for the study (protruding ears, large in size, projecting out more than the average distance from the head, and with an underdeveloped antihelix). The exclusion group consisted of patients who had previously undergone otoplasty, patients with acquired deformations of the auricles, patients with purulent skin diseases, with acute infectious processes, other somatic diseases in the stage of decompensation, and neoplasms of various localizations. Results. To evaluate the effectiveness of otoplasty of various modifications (resection and non-resection), we used the assessment of early (pain, infections, hematomas) and late (deformations, keloid scars, relapses, suture extrusions, loss of local sensitivity, chondritis, necrosis) complications and general satisfaction of patients and surgeons. At the same time, a higher frequency of early complications was found in the first group of patients (the group in which the resection technique of otoplasty was used). On the contrary, late complications were more common in the second group of patients (a group in which a non-resection technique with preserving the integrity of the ear cartilage was used). Conclusions. The choice of an otoplasty option should be selected individually and taking into account possible postoperative complications. Resection techniques of otoplasty give better results in the long term, compared to non-resection techniques.

ABCC6 and ANK are integral membrane proteins involved in the efflux of specific organic anions. ABCC6, primarily expressed in the liver, regulates circulating levels of the mineralization inhibitor pyrophosphate (PPi). In contrast, ANK is widely expressed and plays a dual role, maintaining extracellular PPi homeostasis and, notably, mediating cellular citrate efflux. We studied how both proteins affected extracellular metabolite levels, ectopic calcification, and bone homeostasis.We observed that plasma PPi was reduced by ~36% in Ankank/ank mice and ~60% in Abcc6−/− mice. However, plasma citrate levels depended primarily on ANK, dropping ~75% in Ankank/ank and double mutants, but remaining unchanged in Abcc6−/− mice.MicroCT revealed extreme ectopic calcification in double mutants, far exceeding either single knockout, affecting muzzle skin and ear cartilage. Oral citrate was bioavailable and, at high doses, prevented soft tissue calcification in Abcc6−/− mice, suggesting a systemic protective role.In bone, ANK was essential for incorporating both PPi and citrate, while ABCC6 mainly affected PPi. ANK deficiency led to reduced trabecular volume, cortical thickness, cortical area fraction, and mineral density, with more pronounced effects in males. Biomechanical testing showed decreased ultimate moment, bending rigidity, and energy in ANK-deficient femora, alongside increased post-yield displacement, indicating compensatory matrix changes.Collectively, our findings identify ANK as a dual regulator of PPi and citrate, with a previously unrecognized role in preventing soft tissue calcification. This study positions ANK as a potential therapeutic target for mineralization disorders like pseudoxanthoma elasticum (caused by ABCC6 deficiency) and conditions of low bone mineral density like osteoporosis.

Suturing cartilage can be challenging, especially when tissue shredding occurs due to repeated needle passes. The study aimed to evaluate two primary outcomes: (1) to evaluate the force required to puncture cartilage and (2) the suture retention strength, comparing two distinct needle geometries. Puncture force and tear-through force were measured with a tensiometer and fresh rabbit ear cartilage. Taper point needles tested included: RB-1 on 3-0 Monocryl, TF on 4-0 Monocryl, BB on 5-0 Prolene, and C-1 on 5-0 Prolene. Reverse cutting needles included: PS-2 on 3-0 Monocryl, P-3 on 4-0, PS-3 on 5-0, and P-3 on 5-0 Prolene. The mean force required to puncture cartilage with RB-1, TF, and C-1 needles was 0.66 Newtons (N), 0.90 N, and 0.69 N. For PS-2, 4-0 P-3, and 5-0 P-3 needles, the mean puncture force was 0.63 N, 0.74 N, and 0.61 N, respectively. The mean tear-through force of cartilage with sutures placed by RB-1, TF, BB, PS-2, P-3, PS-3 needles was 14 N, 16.03 N, 10.24 N, 9.91 N, 13.5 N, and 8.57 N, respectively. Although both needle geometries require similar puncture forces, reverse cutting needles demonstrated a higher propensity for cartilage tearing. These findings suggest that taper point needles may offer superior retention and diminished cartilage trauma for suturing cartilage.

Microtia is a congenital auricular hypoplasia, clinically characterized by partial or complete loss of the auricle. This condition not only affects patients' hearing function but also significantly negatively impacts their psychological and social adaptation. Current mainstream treatments include autologous rib cartilage transplantation and implantation of artificial materials, but these are associated with issues such as secondary damage to the donor site, implant exposure, and insufficient morphological fidelity. Recent advances in 3D bioprinting technology have provided a new avenue for constructing highly compatible and biocompatible auricle scaffolds. This study focused on the use of 3D bioprinting technology to fabricate personalized auricle repair scaffolds and systematically evaluated their potential in terms of morphological fidelity, mechanical properties, and biological function. The research method primarily involved: first, 3D reconstruction using patient CT imaging data accurately reproduced the ear anatomy; then, using polycaprolactone (PEL) and gelatin-methacrylamide (GelMA) as the base materials, a composite scaffold with a hierarchical structure was fabricated using a combination of fused deposition modeling (FDM) and photopolymerization techniques; and then, using an in vitro chondrocyte co-culture system, the scaffold's cytocompatibility and chondrogenic efficacy were systematically evaluated. Experimental results show that the prepared scaffold is highly consistent with the complex curved surface of the ear in terms of morphology, has mechanical properties close to those of natural ear cartilage, presents a uniform and interconnected porous structure inside, and its degradation behavior can also be effectively controlled. Cell experiments showed that the surface of the scaffold is conducive to cell adhesion and extension, cell proliferation activity is significantly enhanced, and it can promote the synthesis and deposition of key extracellular matrix components such as collagen fibers and glycosaminoglycans. The above results indicate that the scaffold has good application potential in the field of cartilage regeneration. In summary, the strategy of constructing personalized auricle scaffolds based on 3D bioprinting technology provides a promising new approach for the functional repair of microtia.

Background:Prompt and precise bilirubin assessment is critical for the appropriate intervention in neonatal jaundice management. Various healthcare settings have adopted transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) devices for this purpose. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between TcB readings obtained from five distinct body regions and total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels.Materials and Methods:The research encompassed 202 neonates exhibiting clinical signs of jaundice, admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and general wards of Beheshti Hospital in Isfahan. The cohort included neonates of both genders with a gestational age of 30 weeks or more. Measurements of TcB were performed using the MBJ20 jaundice detector probe on the forehead, sternum, auricle, wrist, and interscapular region, and these were then compared with the TSB levels.Results:The study included a balanced sample of 202 newborns, with an equal distribution between males and females. The mean gestational age was 34.19 ± 2.63 weeks; the average birth weight was 2083 ± 692.18 grams, and the TSB level was 9.95 ± 2.68 mg/dl. The findings revealed a robust, direct, and meaningful correlation between the TcB and TSB levels across all the sites examined. Notably, the correlation was statistically more pronounced at the sternum and forehead.Conclusion:The study confirms that noninvasive TcB assessment at two specific sites—the sternum and forehead—using the MBJ20 bilirubinometer, provides significant congruence with the TSB levels determined by clinical laboratory techniques in both term and preterm neonates. Measurements at the sternum are marginally more precise than those at the forehead.

IntroductionCongenital microtia is a birth defect characterized by auricular underdevelopment, with unclear pathogenesis and unidentified pathogenic genes.MethodsDifferential expression analysis, weighted co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and support vector machine recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) identified the key biomolecules in microtia. Single-cell and intercellular communication analysis were used to decipher the key intercellular signaling pathway. We extracted primary cells and conducted Immuno precipitation mass spectrometry (IP-MS), co-Immuno precipitation (Co-IP) and RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) to confirmed the mechanism. The intercellular communication network was confirmed through the cell co-culture system. Organoid and animal models further validated the role of key biomolecules.ResultsWe found that IL-6 may be the key biomolecule in microtia. Normal ear cartilage tissue is mainly composed of chondrocytes, but microtia auricular ear tissue contained chondrocytes and stem cells. IL-6 signaling pathway is the main intercellular communication pathways in microtia. We extracted primary chondrocytes and stem cells, and proved that IL-6 promotes the growth and migration of primary cells. The binding of IL-6 and IL-6R and Glycoprotein 130 (GP130) and the activation of their downstream were confirmed. Furthermore, IL-6 signaling pathway was proved to involve in the intercellular communication of microtia. Cartilage microspheres demonstrated the role of IL-6 in regeneration of ear cartilage. The preventive intervention of adeno-associated virus (AAV) on pregnant mice confirmed the role of IL-6 in vivo.ConclusionIL-6 signaling is the key biomolecule in the development and regeneration of auricular cartilage in microtia. IL-6 is a potential biomarker and preventive and therapeutic target for microtia patients.

Congenital microtia significantly impacts children's psychological health, yet there has been limited focus on the effect of ear reconstruction surgery on psychological improvements, especially its pathway. This study aims to explore the role of ear appearance in improving psychological health in individuals with congenital unilateral microtia based on social identity theory, highlighting the limited understanding of the specific pathways involved in this relationship, and investigating how social function and benefit mediate the connection between ear appearance and psychological health in patients who underwent autologous cartilage ear reconstruction. A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 96 patients with congenital unilateral microtia between January and June 2024 at the Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, along with responses to the EAR-Q and Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory (GCBI) questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using multiple linear regression and the PROCESS macro in SPSS. Mediation analysis revealed that social function and emotion mediated the relationship between ear appearance and psychological function (total effect = 0.82; direct effect = 0.21; indirect effect = 0.61). Three mediation pathways were identified: ear appearance influenced psychological function through social function, emotional benefit, and a combined effect of both. These findings underscore the critical role of social interaction and emotional health in shaping psychological outcomes for individuals with congenital unilateral microtia following reconstruction. The results offer valuable insights for developing targeted interventions to enhance psychological well-being in this population.

The ear is a common site of facial injury, affecting facial aesthetics and patients' psychological well-being. Postoperative outcomes vary significantly, and this study aims to explore the influencing factors through retrospective analysis, providing references for clinical treatment. A total of 103 patients were included in this study. The severity of ear tissue damage was graded, and factors such as different degrees of injury, defects in auricular soft tissue, the degree of auricular laceration, and ear cartilage damage were analyzed to determine their impact on wound infection, healing of ear tissue, and patients' psychological health after surgical treatment. The cause of ear injury, the extent of damage, and ear cartilage defects increase the likelihood of ear tissue infection after treatment. The depth of auricular injury, the loss of auricular soft tissue, and ear cartilage damage affect postoperative recovery outcomes. Only the degree of auricular laceration impacts patients' psychological health after surgery. Various factors influence the treatment outcomes of ear injuries. Understanding the risk factors for poor prognosis in ear injuries in advance can help clinicians improve treatment processes, thereby enhancing patient outcomes.

Auricular perichondritis is a dangerous infection involving the external ear cartilage and its perichondrium. This condition can lead to significant morbidity including cartilage necrosis, deformity and the characteristic "cauliflower ear" if not properly diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. The infection typically develops following trauma, burns, insect bites, ear surgery, or ear piercings through the cartilaginous portion of the ear. Objective of the study was to analyze the microbiological profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns in auricular perichondritis and to evaluate treatment outcomes in relation to causative organisms and therapeutic approaches. This prospective observational study of 50 consecutive cases of auricular perichondritis was conducted at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital from July 2022 to June 2023. Specimens were collected for culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Patient demographics, predisposing factors, clinical presentations, treatment modalities, and outcomes were analyzed. Patients were followed up for 30 days post-treatment. The mean age was 28.3±9.7 years, with male predominance (60.0%). Ear piercing was the most common predisposing factor (56.0%). Culture positivity rate was 86.0%, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (41.9%) and Staphylococcus aureus (27.9%) being the predominant isolates. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) accounted for 11.6% of isolates. Pseudomonas (P.) aeruginosa showed high susceptibility to fluoroquinolones (88.9%) and aminoglycosides (83.3-94.4%). Complete clinical resolution was achieved in 94% of cases, with mean treatment duration of 14.2 ± 3.8 days. Delayed presentation (>3 days) significantly correlated with complications (p=0.023). The study reveals evolving patterns of causative organisms in auricular perichondritis, with a notable presence of resistant organisms. High culture positivity rates support the importance of culture-guided therapy. Treatment outcomes are favorable with appropriate antibiotic selection and timely intervention. These findings provide evidence-based parameters for empiric therapy while emphasizing the importance of microbiological confirmation.

IntroductionAlkaptonuria is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder caused by homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase (HGD) deficiency, leading to the accumulation of homogentisic acid (HGA). This condition manifests through dark urine, progressive ochronosis (tissue pigmentation), early-onset arthritis, and may include cardiovascular complications.This case highlights the importance of considering metabolic etiologies in early degenerative joint disease, particularly when accompanied by systemic signs like urine discoloration and scleral pigmentation. It adds to scientific literature by reaffirming that rare diseases can present even in under-resourced settings and require clinical vigilance for early diagnosis and intervention. Patient Concerns and Key Clinical FindingsA young adult male presented with:Urinary changes: Darkening of urine upon standing.Ochronosis:Bluish-black pigmentation of scleraPigmentation of ear cartilage and skin foldsOchronotic arthropathy:Progressive joint pain and stiffnessAffected areas: thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spine, large joints (knees, hips)X-rays revealed: intervertebral disc calcification, joint space narrowingCardiovascular involvement:Evidence of aortic valve calcification on echocardiography DiagnosisClinical Clues:Progressive early-onset arthropathyUrine discolorationVisible pigmentation (ochronosis)Laboratory Findings:Ferric chloride test: Black colorationBenedict’s test: Green to black precipitateGas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS): Elevated homogentisic acid (HGA)Genetic testing: Mutation in HGD gene confirmed diagnosis Interventions1. Symptomatic Management:NSAIDs for joint pain and stiffnessPhysiotherapy to preserve joint mobility2. Dietary and Medical Support:Low-protein diet to reduce phenylalanine and tyrosine intake (precursors of HGA)Vitamin C supplementation to slow oxidative polymerization of HGA3. Monitoring and Surveillance:Serial imaging to monitor spinal and joint degenerationRegular urinalysis for metabolic monitoring4. Genetic Counseling:Family screening and education about autosomal recessive inheritanceCarrier testing for first-degree relatives5. Orthopedic Referral:For early assessment and management of degenerative joint changes OutcomesAt 3-month follow-up:Joint symptoms moderately improved with NSAIDs and physiotherapyUrine discoloration persistedPatient reported better functional capacity in daily activitiesAdherence to lifestyle and diet modifications was satisfactory Conclusion and Key TakeawaysThink metabolic in unexplained early-onset arthritis—especially when accompanied by systemic clues.Urine discoloration is a simple but underrecognized diagnostic sign of alkaptonuria.Ochronosis, though delayed, is a diagnostic hallmark.Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care can improve quality of life and delay joint deterioration.Rare diseases occur even in rural or peripheral health settings, emphasizing the need for awareness and basic metabolic workups in atypical arthropathy cases.

BackgroundThe pterional incision is usually performed near the course of the superficial temporal artery (STA), which carries a risk of injury to a branch or even the main trunk of the STA (mSTA). In this study, we assessed the usual course of the mSTA and its parietal branch of the STA (pSTA) and evaluated the efficacy of a modified pterional scalp incision for the preservation of all STA branches.Materials and MethodsSixteen sides of cadaveric heads were dissected to study the location and paths of the mSTA and pSTA in the vicinity of the ear cartilage and the oculomeatal (OM) line. We also performed a clinical study of 31 patients who underwent pterional craniotomy using the modified pterional scalp incision. Postoperative STA preservation was retrospectively evaluated.ResultsThe mean distances between the mSTA and the anterior edge of the ear cartilage were 0.5 and 0.6 mm. The mean angle of the pSTA axis was 88.8 degrees (range 75–95 degrees) from the OM line. Among the patients treated using the modified pterional scalp incision, the mSTA, the pSTA, and the frontal branch of the STA (fSTA) were preserved within the scalp flap in 93.5, 96.7, and 88.9%, respectively.ConclusionThe mSTA was found to pass very close to the ear cartilage, while the axis of pSTA coursed approximately perpendicular to the OM line. To preserve all branches of the STA, the pterional skin incision should begin just anterior to the ear cartilage and then curve slightly to the posterior above the pinna.

BackgroundDue to the rarity of relapsing polychondritis (RP), we described the demographic, clinical, treatment, outcomes, and comorbidities of patients with RP from our tertiary service. Additionally, a literature review was conducted.MethodsA total of 47 Brazilian patients with RP between 2000 and 2024 were analyzed. All patient data were collected from pre-parametrized and pre-standardized electronic medical records. A literature review using PubMed with “relapsing polychondritis” as the search term included 25 articles after applying the strict exclusion criteria.ResultsA total of 47 patients were evaluated. The median age was 40 (34–51) years, with a female-to-male ratio of 1.4:1, and 89.4% were of white ethnicity. The median time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 39 months and the median follow-up duration was 7 years. Ear cartilage biopsy was performed in 12.8% of cases. The clinical manifestations included auricular chondritis, arthralgia, and ocular involvement. Approximately half of the patients had hypertension and dyslipidemia, one-third had diabetes mellitus, and one-fifth had hypothyroidism. Tracheostomy and cochlear implantation were required in 12.8% and 6.4% of the patients, respectively. Disease outcomes showed that 46.8% of patients were in remission, 29.8% had active disease, and 25.5% were controlled with immunosuppressive therapy. Mortality occurred in 6.4% of the cases. In the literature review, 25 studies were analyzed, most of which originated in Asia. Studies have reported the classical manifestations of RP, such as auricular chondritis, arthritis, and ocular involvement. The median age of the patients with RP was similar across studies, averaging 46.4 years, with a predominance of female patients. A comparison with the literature showed consistency in clinical manifestations, particularly auricular chondritis and septum nasal chondritis, although few studies have explored comorbidities, disease evolution, and outcomes.ConclusionsThe reviewed articles described classical clinical manifestations, but few articles reported data on other manifestations and comorbidities that can occur in RP. Our study provided new insights by mapping symptom evaluations, thereby enhancing the understanding of disease evolution. Understanding and characterizing RP will allow for better assistance in its diagnosis and follow-up.

Reconstructing auricular tissue is challenging because ear cartilage has few blood vessels and limited regenerative capacity. Traditional methods that utilize autologous costal cartilage or synthetic polymers often lead to donor site morbidity and suboptimal biocompatibility. In this study, we introduce 3D-printed scaffolds composed of decellularized human cartilage-derived bioink combined with polycaprolactone (PCL), designed to enhance both tissue regeneration and mechanical stability. The decellularization process effectively removed cellular components while preserving glycosaminoglycan and total collagen, comparable to those in native cartilage. We formulated the bioink by incorporating decellularized human cartilage particles into hyaluronic acid and carboxymethyl cellulose gels, optimizing the rheological properties for 3D printing. In vitro tests demonstrated that the decellularized human cartilage-derived bioink exhibited no cytotoxicity and facilitated the migration and chondrogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells. We fabricated 3D-printed scaffolds using this bioink combined with PCL and evaluated their performance in rabbits over a one-year implantation period. Our results indicated that the scaffolds maintained structural integrity throughout the year and exhibited significant neovascularization and chondrogenesis. Histological analysis revealed increased blood vessel formation in scaffolds with higher ratios and greater decellularized cartilage content with notable differences observed across varying porosities. These findings suggest that 3D-printed scaffolds with decellularized human cartilage-derived bioink and PCL offer a promising approach for auricular reconstruction, potentially improving outcomes for patients with microtia.

In this study, we analysed scrapie test results of Hungarian indigenous sheep breeds (Cikta, Tsigai, Dairy Tsigai, Transylvanian Racka, and Hungarian Racka in white and black colour variants) and the endangered Hungarian Merino rams during the period from 2019 to 2023. In Hungary, it is mandatory to perform scrapie testing for every ram intended for breeding. These results were subsequently compared with data from analyses conducted in 2004 and between 2013 and 2015, which served as control samples. The test results were given by the Hungarian Sheep and Goat Breeders’ Association. The employees collected ear cartilage tissue samples during the identification of the lambs using TypiFixTM by Agrobiogen GmBH. We determined the frequencies of alleles, genotypes, and risk groups, and calculated the proportion of each within the studied population. The scrapie test results were evaluated using the SPSS 23 software package and a Chi2-test. Samples were categorised into one of five risk groups (R1 (lowest)–R5 (highest)) based on the degree of resistance observed. In conclusion, we found that there was a significant improvement in scrapie susceptibility for all breeds except the Cikta. However, the potential impact of this improvement on other important traits remains undetermined. Regarding susceptibility to scrapie, the Hungarian Merino is the most resistant group, as 68.8% of the rams in this breed belonged to the R1 risk group, while the Cikta sheep is in the least favourable position, as only 3.3% of the examined individuals belonged to this category.