What condition results in irritation of the ribs, leading to chest pain that worsens when pressing on the sternum?

Costochondritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the sternum. This inflammation can irritate the surrounding tissues, leading to localized chest pain that worsens with palpation of the sternum or movement. When pressure is applied to the sternum, the inflammation in the costal cartilage becomes aggravated, causing increased discomfort.

In contrast, pleurisy involves inflammation of the pleura—the membranes surrounding the lungs—resulting in sharp pain that typically worsens with breathing or coughing rather than direct pressure on the sternum. Pericarditis affects the pericardium, the sac around the heart, and can cause chest pain that may also radiate but is often described differently from costochondritis pain. A rib fracture can lead to chest pain as well, especially with movement or palpation; however, the specific symptom of worsening pain upon applying pressure directly to the sternum aligns more closely with costochondritis.