Characteristics of Chinese Costal Cartilage and Costa Calcification Using Dual-Energy Computed Tomography Imaging

To assess characteristics of Chinese costal cartilage and costa calcification using Dual-Energy computed tomography(DECT). 154 patients who underwent chest DECT scanning were included in our study. They were divided into following groups: less than 30 years old, 31–40 years old, 41–50 years old, 51–60 years old and over 60 years old. The sixth, seventh and eighth costal cartilages and costas were evaluated. Calcification patterns of cartilage were classified as central(C), peripheral(P), mixed(M) and no calcification(N) types. Calcification degree of cartilage was distinguished as 1(0–25%), 2(26–50%) and 3(>50%). CT value, calcium and water concentrations were measured in costal cartilage, cortical or cancellous bone respectively. An increasing C pattern of cartilage was displayed in females, while P type preferred in males as age increased. Calcification degree generally changed from 1 to 2 or 3 in females. CT value and calcium concentration of cartilage went through a gradual rising course and peaked in their 40–50 years, while those two indices of cancellous bone decreased gradually since their 50 years in females. The findings suggest a gradual calcification of the costal cartilage took place before 40–50 years old and a sharp bone loss of the costa happened after 40–50 years old in females.