Yes, a human can have 13 ribs, although it's not the typical anatomical arrangement.
Extra Ribs: Cervical Ribs
The most common reason for someone to have 13 ribs is the presence of a cervical rib. This is an extra rib that forms above the first rib, growing out from the seventh cervical vertebra (the last vertebra in the neck).
- Prevalence: Cervical ribs are estimated to occur in about 1 in 200 people.
- Congenital Condition: This is a congenital condition, meaning it's present at birth.
- Symptoms: Many people with a cervical rib are unaware they have it, as it often causes no symptoms. However, a cervical rib can sometimes compress nearby blood vessels or nerves, leading to:
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)
- Numbness or tingling in the arm and hand
- Pain in the neck, shoulder, or arm
- Reduced blood flow to the arm
- Diagnosis: A cervical rib is usually discovered during an X-ray performed for another reason.
- Treatment: Treatment is typically only necessary if the cervical rib is causing symptoms. Options include:
- Physical therapy
- Pain medication
- Surgery to remove the rib
In summary, while the standard human anatomy includes 12 pairs of ribs, the presence of a cervical rib means that a person can indeed have 13 ribs. It's a relatively common congenital condition that may or may not cause noticeable problems.
