betty
As painful as it can be and as disabling, if it is truly costochondritis, it is not life threatening or real serious; although it causes great pain and stress. I have it and I know how horrible it is. How did it come about in your son? Something starts it; sometimes a fit of coughing or maybe being hit in chest. I doubt a doctor would use steriods for this since steriods can and do thin bones sometimes. Steroids should be saved for a last resort - I know because I've had a rheumatologist give me too much. A regular general practioner should be able to treat this. There is no need for specialist, unless there is some other illness also present. Good luck.