Open AccessSlipping rib syndrome in an adolescent wrestler
Author(s) -
Irfan Chhipa,
Quincy T. Cheesman
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
bmj case reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.231
H-Index - 26
ISSN - 1757-790X
DOI - 10.1136/bcr-2019-232514
Subject(s) - medicine , physical examination , differential diagnosis , rib cage , surgery , slipping , abdominal pain , anatomy , pathology , mechanical engineering , engineering
Slipping rib syndrome is a commonly missed diagnosis of upper abdominal pain. It results from hypermobility of the anterior rib due to the disruption of the interchondral ligaments, most likely secondary to repetitive motions or some inciting event. The hypermobility leads to impingement of the intercostal nerves resulting in significant pain.A 10-year-old adolescent male child was evaluated for 4 months of intermittent, left-sided, upper abdominal pain following a wrestling injury. His paediatrician referred him for further evaluation after a negative workup given the patient was still having intermittent bouts of short-lasting pain that would spontaneously resolve. Physical examination demonstrated a positive hooking manoeuvre with associated swelling and prominence over the lower left ribs.In conclusion, a broad differential diagnosis, thorough clinical examination, and knowledge of slipping rib syndrome are important to appropriately diagnose and treat patients symptoms.