Alternate Names : Chest wall pain
Definition
Costochondritis is an inflammation of a rib or the cartilage connecting a rib. It is a common cause of chest pain.
See also: Chest pain
Pictures & Images
Ribs and lung anatomy
The ribs are the skeletal protection for the lungs and the chest cavity. The ribs and rib muscles expand and contract with normal breathing.
Review Date : 11/16/2008
Reviewed By : Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2010 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the
information contained herein is strictly prohibited.