Are Cervical Ribs Indicators of Childhood Cancer? A Narrative Review
A cervical rib (CR), also known as a supernumerary or extra rib, is an additional rib that forms above the first rib, resulting from the overgrowth of the transverse process of a cervical vertebra. Increasingly recognized as a potential marker of developmental disruptions and genetic instability, CRs are believed to…
2025 1,758 reads 0 citations
Review Articles
Are Cervical Ribs Indicators of Childhood Cancer? A Narrative Review
A cervical rib (CR), also known as a supernumerary or extra rib, is an additional rib that forms above the first rib, resulting from the overgrowth of the transverse process of a cervical vertebra. Increasingly recognized as a potential marker of developmental disruptions and genetic instability, CRs are believed to arise from mutations in homeobox (Hox) genes that influence axial skeletal development. While often asymptomatic, CRs have been linked to thoracic outlet syndrome and a higher prevalence in individuals with certain childhood cancers. Studies have reported associations between CRs and malignancies such as neuroblastoma, brain tumors, leukemia, sarcomas, Wilms tumor, and germ cell tumors, suggesting possible shared embryological pathways or genetic predispositions. However, conflicting research findings highlight inconsistencies in these associations, underscoring the need for further investigation. This review aims to assess the association between CRs and childhood cancers by examining prevalence rates, exploring genetic and developmental links, evaluating inconsistencies in existing research, and identifying gaps for future study to clarify the clinical significance of CRs in cancer risk assessment.
Keywords Cervical rib Childhood cancer Congenital anomalies Rib anomalies All subjects
Barw Medical Journal. 2025;3(3):26–33