How is Costochondritis / Tietze Syndrome diagnosed?

Costochondritis, also known as Tietze syndrome, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (sternum). This inflammation can cause chest pain and discomfort, often mimicking the symptoms of a heart attack or other serious conditions. Diagnosing Costochondritis/Tietze syndrome involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and diagnostic tests.

Medical History Evaluation

During the medical history evaluation, the healthcare provider will ask you questions about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries or activities that may have triggered the chest pain. It is important to provide detailed information about the location, intensity, and duration of the pain, as well as any factors that worsen or alleviate the symptoms. This information helps the healthcare provider differentiate Costochondritis/Tietze syndrome from other potential causes of chest pain.

Physical Examination

The physical examination is a crucial step in diagnosing Costochondritis/Tietze syndrome. The healthcare provider will carefully examine your chest, looking for signs of inflammation, tenderness, swelling, or redness in the affected area. They may also palpate or press on the chest to identify specific points of tenderness. It is important to note that the pain experienced during the physical examination may reproduce the chest pain you have been experiencing.

Diagnostic Tests

If the medical history evaluation and physical examination strongly suggest Costochondritis/Tietze syndrome, additional diagnostic tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of chest pain. These tests may include:

• Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be performed to visualize the chest area and rule out other conditions such as fractures, tumors, or infections.


• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can help rule out heart-related causes of chest pain, such as a heart attack.


• Lab tests: Blood tests may be conducted to check for markers of inflammation or to rule out other underlying conditions.

Differential Diagnosis

Costochondritis/Tietze syndrome can often be diagnosed based on the medical history evaluation, physical examination, and ruling out other potential causes of chest pain. However, it is important to consider other conditions that may present with similar symptoms. Some of these conditions include:

• Heart-related conditions: Angina, heart attack, or other cardiac conditions can cause chest pain that may be similar to Costochondritis/Tietze syndrome. An ECG/EKG and other cardiac tests can help differentiate between these conditions.


• Lung-related conditions: Pneumonia, pleurisy, or other lung conditions can cause chest pain. Imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans can help identify any abnormalities in the lungs.


• Gastrointestinal conditions: Acid reflux, gallbladder disease, or other gastrointestinal issues can cause chest pain. Additional tests may be required to evaluate the digestive system.


• Musculoskeletal conditions: Conditions such as muscle strains, rib fractures, or arthritis can cause chest pain. Physical examination and imaging tests can help identify any musculoskeletal abnormalities.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Self-diagnosis based on internet research is not recommended, as it may lead to incorrect conclusions and delay proper medical care.