Costosternal Syndrome (Costochondritis)

Chest pain can result from a broad range of causes, including both musculoskeletal and nonmusculoskeletal etiologies. Pain due to musculoskeletal causes can arise from the cartilage, bones, muscles, nerves, or joints that make up the chest wall. Costochondritis is one of the most common causes of chest wall pain and refers to inflammation in the costochondral or costosternal junction; it is also known as costosternal syndrome. Up to 30% of cases of chest pain that present to the hospital emergency room may be explained by costochondritis. However, it is a much more ...