A rare disorder characterized by recurring inflammation of cartilage which results in deterioration of the cartilage. Any part of the body with cartilage may be affected - ears, nose bridge, larynx, trachea, aortic heart valve and around joints. Symptoms are determined by the part of the body that is affected. Breathing problems and even death can occur if the cartilage in the breathing airways or the aortic valve are affected. See also Meyenburg-Altherr-Uehlinger syndrome