Spontaneous Fracture of the Sternum Simulating Myocardial Infarction

Abstract

Fracture of the sternum is very rare. Although it usually is caused by a direct blow to the sternum, it also may be caused by an injury of or a blow to a remote part. In the case reported, it was due to osteoporosis. The presence of a fracture of the sternum should be suspected in any case in which a patient, particularly a woman, of middle age or older complains of sudden pain in the chest.