Slipping rib syndrome: an overlooked cause of chest and abdominal pain.

Slipping rib syndrome is a poorly recognised cause of chest and abdominal pain. It occurs principally in the middle-aged but may occur at any age. It is equally common in men and women and is frequently confused with other serious causes of chest and abdominal pain. Patients are often subjected to extensive and sometimes invasive needless investigation for unexplained symptoms. Greater awareness of this syndrome among clinicians could sale both patient and doctor time and unnecessary concern. Two case reports are presented.