Experiencing chest pain can be alarming, especially when doctors tell you your heart is normal. One lesser-known cause of non-cardiac chest pain is Tietze’s syndrome, a condition affecting the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone (sternum).

What is Tietze’s Syndrome?

Tietze’s syndrome is inflammation of the costal cartilage at the costochondral joint. This cartilage is tough but flexible, and inflammation can lead to sharp, localized chest pain.

Who is affected?

• Typically young adults under 40 years of age.

Causes:

• Infection
• Irritation or injury
• Repetitive wear and tear of the cartilage

What is Tietze’s Syndrome?

Tietze’s syndrome is inflammation of the costal cartilage at the costochondral joint. This cartilage is tough but flexible, and inflammation can lead to sharp, localized chest pain.

Who is affected?

• Typically young adults under 40 years of age.

Causes:

• Infection
• Irritation or injury
• Repetitive wear and tear of the cartilage

Symptoms of Tietze’s Syndrome

Chest pain from Tietze’s syndrome can mimic heart problems, but there are some distinguishing features:

• Sharp pain worsened by:
  1. Certain postures, such as lying down
  2. Pressure on the chest (seatbelts, hugging)
  3. Deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing
  4. Physical activity

Difference from heart-related chest pain:

• Heart attack pain is usually more widespread and may be accompanied by:
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea
  • Sweating

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on history and physical examination. Additional tests may be done to rule out cardiac causes.

Treatment Options

• Pain Relief: Painkillers are the first line of treatment.
• Steroid Injections: Occasionally recommended if symptoms are severe.
• Rest & Posture Adjustments: Avoiding activities that worsen pain can help.

Prognosis:

• Symptoms often improve on their own within a few weeks, though they may last several months in some cases.
• Tietze’s syndrome does not cause permanent problems, but relapses can occur.

Takeaway

Tietze’s syndrome is a benign yet painful condition that can cause sharp chest pain even when your heart is healthy. Awareness of its symptoms can help reduce unnecessary anxiety and guide effective management.

About the Expert

Dr. Gururaj S Puranik

• MBBS, DNB (Trauma & Ortho)
• MRCS (Edinburgh), FRCS (Trauma & Ortho)
• Fellowship in Limb Reconstruction (Liverpool)
• Senior Consultant – Trauma & Orthopaedics