How to examine for intercostal neuralgia

Jun 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Six months ago, I was diagnosed with intercostal neuralgia and have been undergoing medication treatment. May I ask, how is intercostal neuralgia examined?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xiao Ning
The examination for intercostal neuralgia mainly includes the following aspects: 1. Physical examination: The physician will perform visual inspection and palpation to check for local tenderness, swelling, redness of the skin, and other symptoms, in order to make a preliminary judgment on the presence of intercostal neuralgia. 2. Laboratory tests: A complete blood count is an important part of the evaluation. Changes in the numbers of white blood cells, neutrophils, and other indicators help determine whether an infection is present. 3. Imaging studies: Chest X-ray can help identify lesions such as thoracic tuberculosis, destruction of thoracic vertebrae, or thoracic tumors. More advanced imaging methods such as CT or MRI can provide more detailed information. 4. Electrocardiogram (ECG): This is used to rule out the possibility of heart disease causing intercostal neuralgia.