The costal margin, also known as the costal arch,[1] is the lower edge of the chest (thorax) formed by the bottom edge of the rib cage.
| Costal margin | |
|---|---|
 Anterior surface of sternum and costal cartilages. (The costal margin forms a large upside-down V on the inferior border.) | |
| Details | |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | arcus costalis |
| TA98 | A02.3.04.006 |
| TA2 | 1101 |
| FMA | 7569 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
Structure
The costal margin is the medial margin formed by the cartilages of the seventh to tenth ribs. It attaches to the body and xiphoid process of the sternum.[2]
The thoracic diaphragm attaches to the costal margin.[3]
The costal angle is the angle between the left and right costal margins where they join the sternum.[2]
Function
The costal margins somewhat protect the higher abdominal organs, such as the liver.[4][5]
Clinical significance
The costal margin may be used for tissue harvesting of cartilage for use elsewhere in the body, such as to treat microtia.[4]
Different abdominal organs may be palpated just below the costal margin, such as the liver on the right side of the body.[5]
Pain across the costal margin is most commonly caused by costochondritis.[6]
The costal paradox, also known as Hoover's sign and the costal margin paradox, is a sign where the costal angle decreases upon inspiration rather than increasing, indicating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.[2]
References
External links
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