$Unique_ID{BRK00896}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{What is "Costochondritis"?}
$Subject{chondritis ribs cartilage}
$Volume{M-18}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is "Costochondritis"?


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QUESTION:  Mike Tyson was recently diagnosed as having "costochondritis".
What is it.  What are its symptoms?  This recently has been a favorite topic
among athletic followers.

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ANSWER:  I can only begin to imagine what some of your fellow boxing fans are
saying, or thinking.  But there is such an entity, and it is pretty common.
Taking the word apart we find "costo"  which denotes a rib, "chondr" which
means cartilage and then the familiar "itis" denoting an inflammation.
Together, an inflammation of the cartilage of the ribs, normally found at the
end of the rib where it attaches to the sternum, the bone that forms the
central chest structure.  The history usually is enough to make the diagnosis,
upon hearing the story of a pain or discomfort in the chest, sometimes sharp
sometimes dull, and aggravated by motion of the trunk.  Usually the patient
can put one or two fingers on the exact area of the pain.  Any pressure
applied directly to the area reproduces the pain.  Occasionally, a physician
can feel a swelling of the cartilage at the exact location of the tenderness.
Its not a very serious condition, and is considered in the same category as a
strain.  In ordinary mortals, there is not too much that need be done, for the
condition will usually disappear in a week or two on its own, and doesn't
interfere much with normal activity.  However, a boxing champion whose
performance depends upon being in top shape, and who is likely to be at risk
for more than a few sharp raps to the chest may see things differently.  It is
probable that in his cases the pain would be more than slightly exaggerated.
As to the validity of this diagnosis in postponing a bout, I am going to side
with the Champ.  I think it is safer that way.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
