Slipping rib syndrome: an infrequently recognized entity in children: a report of three cases and review of the literature.

Slipping rib syndrome is a sprain disorder produced by trauma to the costal cartilages of the 8th, 9th, and 10th ribs. The symptoms are neuritic pain, autonomic symptoms, and a perception of a slipping movement of the ribs. It is frequently confused with intraabdominal disorders. Diagnosis is made by a positive hooking maneuver or demonstration of tenderness over the affected cartilages. Three case reports, a review of the literature, and a discussion of the syndrome are presented.