Causes of asymmetrical side protrusion of the rib cage

Many diseases can cause rib asymmetry, for example, rickets can cause abnormal development of the thorax in patients. Infants and children can be diagnosed by other symptoms, such as occipital baldness, nocturnal cries, and trace element testing. Once diagnosed, the patient’s symptoms can be relieved by taking oral vitamin D and calcium tablets. Patients with severe rickets are left with sequelae, such as rib asymmetry. Such sequelae do not require treatment if they do not cause symptoms such as heartburn, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. In addition to rickets, diseases such as scoliosis can also cause asymmetry of the rib cage. Patients who develop severe scoliosis from adolescence are prone to rib asymmetry. Treatment options can be chosen according to the degree of scoliosis, with surgical correction being an option if necessary. Rib tumors and abnormal growths can also cause the ribs to protrude on one side, which can be investigated with chest X-rays and MRIs if necessary.