Pediatric rib pathologies: clinicoimaging scenarios and approach to diagnosis

Abstract

Pathologies involving the ribs are diverse in nature, including entities specific to the pediatric population as well as shared pathologies with adults. These can be either localized within or adjacent to the rib, but may also cause rib alteration as a component of a systemic process. To better understand these disorders, we discuss several common rib pathologies in the context of their clinical presentation and pertinent imaging findings. In addition, we review the imaging modalities that may be used to evaluate the ribs. Encompassing both the clinical and imaging aspects of pediatric rib pathologies, this review aims to increase pediatric and musculoskeletal radiologists' awareness of the spectrum of disease and how to leverage a pattern-based approach.

Keywords: Children; Computed tomography; Osteochondroma; Osteomyelitis; Radiography; Rib fractures; Ribs; Scoliosis; Thoracic wall.