Pectus excavatum

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Pectus excavatum

Pectus excavatum is the descriptive term for an abnormal formation of the rib cage, in which the distance from the breastbone (sternum) to the backbone (vertebrae) is decreased, giving the chest a caved-in or sunken appearance.

Pectus excavatum is a congenital (present at birth)abnormality that can be mild or severe. The child typically has a depression in the center of the chest over the sternum, and this may appear quite deep. It is caused by excessive growth of the the connective tissue joining the ribs to the breastbone, which causes an inward malformation of the sternum.

If pectus excavatum is severe, it may affect the heart and lungs, making exercise difficult. Also, the appearance of the chest may cause psychological difficulty for the child.

Pectus excavatum may occur as the only abnormality, or in association with other syndromes.

• Isolated defect (i.e., not associated with other problems)
• Familial pectus excavatum
• Marfan's syndrome
• Rickets

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