Spontaneous fracture of the sternum simulating myocardial infarction

Summary Spontaneous fractures of the sternum are rare but worth knowing as they may simulate acute cardiac and pulmonary emergencies. A case of an insufficiency sternal fracture mimicking myocardial infarction and subsequent anginal pain is presented. The risk factors of this condition, its clinical features and the diagnostic procedures are discussed. Spontaneous fractures of the sternum should be considered as a diagnostic possibility for unexplained chest pains in the elderly.