Differential Diagnosis for Vibration on the Chest

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Precordial catch syndrome: This condition is characterized by a sharp, stabbing pain or vibration in the chest, often precipitated by movement or deep breathing. It's a benign condition but can be alarming.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone can cause chest pain or vibrations, especially with movement or pressure.
  • Musculoskeletal strain: Strain or injury to the muscles or bones of the chest wall can lead to sensations of vibration or pain.
  • Anxiety or panic disorder: These conditions can manifest with chest sensations, including vibrations, due to hyperventilation or muscle tension.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Pulmonary embolism: Although less likely, a pulmonary embolism can cause sudden, unexplained chest pain or sensations, including vibrations, and is a medical emergency.
  • Myocardial infarction (heart attack): Chest pain or discomfort is a hallmark of a heart attack, and while vibration is less common, any unexplained chest symptom warrants consideration of this diagnosis.
  • Pneumothorax: A collapsed lung can cause sudden chest pain and sensations, including vibrations, especially if the collapse is small and not immediately diagnosed.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A condition where the heart muscle becomes thickened, which can lead to abnormal heart rhythms and sensations, including vibrations in the chest.
  • Pericarditis: Inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart can cause chest pain or vibrations, often sharp and improving with sitting up and leaning forward.
  • Tietze's syndrome: A rare condition similar to costochondritis but involves the inflammation of the cartilages and surrounding tissues of the upper ribs, leading to chest pain or vibrations.