Slipping rib syndrome: A neglected cause of hypochondrial pain

Slipping rib syndrome (SRS) is an under-recognized cause of lower chest and upper abdominal pain. We described this rare condition in a 27-year-old female with chronic right hypochondrial pain. The condition was initially diagnosed as irritable bowel. Extensive imaging studies and laboratory investigations failed to determine the underlying cause of pain for 2 years. The diagnosis was made clinically by hooking maneuver and on ultrasound. After the failure of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs therapy and intercostal nerve block to improve symptoms, surgical resection of the anterior end of the free-floating right 10th rib was performed. Awareness of SRS can help rapid diagnosis and treatment of a benign cause of abdominal upper quadrant pain.