[Sterno-chondro-costal joint arthritis in heroin addicts. Value of computed x-ray tomography. 4 cases]

Four cases of sterno-articular arthritis in young heroin addicts are reported. The diagnosis, much facilitated by the knowledge of drug addiction, is confirmed by biopsy which excludes a tumour, usually malignant in that region. Computerized tomography is essential to explore for retrosternal extension. In the absence of extension cure can be obtained by medical treatment, thus avoiding resection of the sternum and rib with subsequent plastic surgery.