Incidental Discovery of a Cervical Rib in a Case of Acute Cholecystitis: A Rare Anatomical Variant

Cureus. 2024 Apr 22;16(4):e58794. doi: 10.7759/cureus.58794. eCollection 2024 Apr.

Abstract

This case report discusses the incidental discovery of a cervical rib in a 53-year-old woman presenting with acute cholecystitis. While cervical ribs are rare, their identification holds clinical significance due to their potential implications for vascular compression or thoracic outlet syndrome. Despite the patient's primary complaint of cholecystitis, a chest X-ray incidentally revealed the cervical rib. This finding underscores the importance of a thorough radiographic examination. The report discusses similar cases, emphasizing varying clinical presentations and associated vascular complications. The case highlights the necessity for a comprehensive assessment of incidental findings to ensure holistic patient care and management, emphasizing the importance of considering anatomical variants in clinical practice.

Keywords: acute cholecystitis; anatomical variant; cervical rib; incidental discovery; radiographic examination.

Publication types

  • Case Reports