When a woman has costochondritis, what does it mean?

Inflammation: Costochondritis usually refers to an inflammation of the joint where the rib meets the sternum (breastbone). It manifests as chest wall pain and is typically treated with nsaids and rest. The key is having a doctor confirm the diagnosis and make sure they rule out other causes of chest pain. (cardiac, gerd, etc).

Viral illness: Costochondritis, or tietze's syndrome, is an inflammation of the costochondral junction along the anterior chestwall adjacent to the sternum. It is usually caused by a viral illness, and like all viral illnesses who gets it is hard to predict. No genetic predisposition has been suggested. A strong immune system is probably the best defense, i.e., good rest, good nutrition, etc. Ibuprofen helps.

Front chestwall pain: I agree with dr. Degruccio that costochondritis, or tietze's syndrome, is an inflammation of the costochondral junction along the anterior chestwall adjacent to the sternum..And treatment is usually include antiinflammatory medications, may be steroid for severe cases, iotophoresis/ultrasound/heat may help. The cause of this condition is, however, not well defined!