Premature idiopathic costochondral calcification: A Case Report

Abstract

Calcification of costal cartilage increases with age and it is rare before the age of thirty years. Early onset of costochondral calcification can be associated several endocrine and metabolic diseases, following a trauma, infections, malignancies or due to genetic factors and very rarely idiopathic. Our case exemplifies premature calcification of costal cartilages. The patient was a 20-year-old lady, referred to endocrine clinic in UMS polyclinic, Kingfisher, University Malaysia Sabah for evaluation of metabolic and endocrine causes of premature costochondral calcification. Physical examination findings were normal except mild tenderness over the left lower lateral part of the chest. Investigation results were inconclusive to detect any underlying endocrine, metabolic or inflammatory conditions. Chest X-Ray revealed bilateral calcification of the 10th, 11th and 12th costal cartilages and was diagnosed as idiopathic calcification of costal cartilage. Only analgesics were given as treatment and the pain subsided after few days.