Osteomyelitis of the first rib presenting as a cold abscess nine months after subclavian venous catheterization

Percutaneous subclavian catheterization has been associated with numerous complications including osteomyelitis of the clavicle and sternoclavicular joint. We report a case of staphylococcal aureus osteomyelitis of the first rib associated with subclavian vein catheterization performed for temporary right ventricular pacing. This case is unusual because of its involvement of the first rib, its late development, and its presentation as a cold chest wall mass.