Costochondritis and PBC About Us Join The PBCers Index Site Map Costochondritis and PBC Costochondritis is one of many disorders associated with autoimmune diseases. Normally this disorder will go away on its own. When associated with an autoimmune diseases such as PBC, it may linger for years or a lifetime. Costochondritis causes mild to severe pain in the lower rib area or upper breastbone.
Some patients fear they are having a heart attack.
The most severe pain is usually in the lower rib area between the breast and upper abdomen. The pain may be more noticeable in sitting or reclining positions, and stress is known to aggravate this condition. Usually the cause is unknown. If this condition doesn't respond to simple treatment measures, the patient should undergo more tests. When costochondritis is associated with liver disease, it is more difficult to treat.