Could constant cough cause rib injury?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have annual breast MRI for a history of breast cancer. I had one last week, and the breasts looked normal. But, there was some linear enhancement on two ribs. I had rib x-rays after and they were normal. I am having a bone scan next week. My question is that prior to this MRI I had a horrible cough, cold and felt pain in my ribs from the constant coughing. Could this enhancement be related to that?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It is possible that you might have had a slight injury to your ribs due to coughing. It is not a complete fracture, though.

The MRI scan picked up these lines of bone edema and therefore, linear areas of enhancement showing acute stress fracture are possible from a cough.

It will help to know if your vitamin D levels are low and if your bones are weak.

For further information consult a radiologist online.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The rib enhancement and associated T2 hyperintensity means that the part of the rib is having good vascular supply and shows bone edema.

Inflammation like Tietze syndrome (costochondritis) or rib bruise from repeated coughing can cause the above features.

For further information consult a radiologist online.