A6-week-old female infant was seen in the outpatient department for a fever of 24 hours' duration. Anteroposterior and lateral supine chest roentgenograms were performed (Fig 1) and the baby was admitted for evaluation of possible sepsis.
Previous medical history and the results of the physical examination were unremarkable. Cerebrospinal fluid via lumbar puncture was consistent with aseptic meningitis. Oblique chest roentgenograms (Fig 2) and a technetium Tc 99m medronate bone scan were obtained. The hospital course was uneventful and the patient was discharged after five days.
Denouement and Discussion
Intrathoracic Rib
Though congenital anomalies of the ribs are common, intrathoracic ribs are extremely rare.1 They are more frequently seen on the right than on the left and are usually single." Generally, these originate posteriorly and extend downward and slightly laterally to end at or near the diaphragm1; in one case, an intrathoracic rib bridged the thorax internally.3 The rib is always outside the parietal pleura,