Precordial Catch Syndrome

Abstract

The precordial catch syndrome is frequently mentioned as part of a long differential diagnosis of chest pain in children. It is an extremely common complaint but remains underrecognized. This review describes the distinctive features of the syndrome and points out that this is not a diagnosis of exclusion. Emphasis is placed on the need for taking a careful history to elicit the diagnostic features of the syndrome and performing a thorough physical examination. Diagnostic testing is usually unnecessary. Familiarity with the features of precordial catch syndrome should be helpful to primary care providers caring for children.

Recurrent chest pain in the well child

“…It is usually felt in the precordial area but can also occur under the left breast or by the left sternal border, or other sites 21 30. It is most common in those aged 6–12 years old 31. The origin of the pain is uncertain, but it may come from the parietal pleura (the visceral pleura has no pain receptors) or be due to a muscular spasm 21.…”

“…The origin of the pain is uncertain, but it may come from the parietal pleura (the visceral pleura has no pain receptors) or be due to a muscular spasm 21. It is certainly not of cardiac or pericardial origin 31. The pain can occur at rest or on exercise, and generally lasts from 30 s to 3 min — it rarely lasts for longer than 1 min 21 30 31.…”

Dolor torácico

“…• 4 : es un dolor intenso de inicio brusco y duración breve (segundos o minutos) localizado en el borde esternal izquierdo. Ocurre en reposo o tras ejercicio poco intenso, muchas veces al flexionar el tronco o al sentarse con los hombros caídos.…”

Atypical Chest Pain in Athletes

“…Precordial catch syndrome was first described in 1955 and is characterized by sudden onset sharp, stabbing, well-localized pain (15). It is thought to be a common cause of chest pain in children, frequently presenting between the ages of 6 and 12 yr (15).…”

“…It is thought to be a common cause of chest pain in children, frequently presenting between the ages of 6 and 12 yr (15). Episodes last between 30 s and 3 min and rarely are associated with other symptoms.…”