Bifid rib in a male cadaver : Serendipic or syndromic

Bifid rib presents usually as an isolated and asymptomatic finding on x-rays and cadaveric dissections. This may be due to atypical process of segmentation of developing somites. Sometimes it may occur with other malformations. Aim of the case report presented here was to give a description of the characteristics of bifid rib and to look for any associated abnormalities. During routine dissection, bifid rib was found in thoraco-abdominal region of a male cadaver. The dimensions of the bifid rib were measured with digital vernier calliper of resolution 0.01mm and photographed using a digital camera. Survey of other regions of the cadaver was done by dissection. Bifurcation of anterior part of right third rib enclosing an additional intercostal space was found. Follow-up dissection in other regions of the cadaver revealed characteristics of Crohn-s disease of jejunum, ileum, and transverse colon and signs of dysmorphism of both the kidneys. The knowledge of such variations will be of use to the clinicians, radiologist and anatomist to investigate any incidental bifid rib finding.