Thoracic Motion Analysis Using a TrueDepth Camera in Patients with Relapsing Polychondritis: A Pilot Study.

Background/

Objectives

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare autoimmune disorder marked by recurrent inflammation of cartilaginous tissues, including the airways. Airway involvement, such as subglottic stenosis and airway malacia, significantly impacts prognosis. Although spirometry is the standard for evaluating respiratory function, it may be unfeasible in patients with severe airway narrowing or tracheostomy. This study evaluated the potential of a smartphone-based application, DepthRecorder, which uses the iPhone's TrueDepth camera to analyze thoracic motion in real time.

Methods

Twelve patients with RP were enrolled. All underwent simultaneous respiratory assessment using spirometry and the DepthRecorder application. Thoracic motion data were corrected for height using previously validated regression formulas. Correlation between DepthRecorder and spirometry values was analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation for forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and the FEV1/FVC ratio.

Results

Mean age was 53.8 ± 13.3 years, with equal numbers of males and females. Before correction, DepthRecorder showed moderate correlations for FEV1 (ρ = 0.48, p = 0.003) and FEV1/FVC (%) (ρ = 0.57, p < 0.001). After correction, stronger correlations were observed for FVC (ρ = 0.76, p < 0.001), FEV1 (ρ = 0.72, p < 0.001), and FEV1/FVC (%) (ρ = 0.60, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The DepthRecorder application demonstrated strong correlations with spirometry following height-based correction. This method may offer a practical, non-invasive tool for respiratory assessment in RP patients who cannot undergo conventional lung function testing. Further studies are needed to validate these findings and establish clinical reference standards.