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Pectus excavatum

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Illustrations

Pectus excavatum
Pectus excavatum
Ribcage
Ribcage
Pectus excavatum repair  - series
Pectus excavatum repair - series

Alternative Names    Return to top

Funnel chest

Definition    Return to top

Pectus excavatum describes an abnormal formation of the rib cage that gives the chest a caved-in or sunken appearance.

Considerations    Return to top

Pectus excavatum is a congenital (present at birth) abnormality that can be mild or severe.

It is caused by too much growth of the connective tissue that joins the ribs to the breastbone. This causes the sternum to malform inward. The child typically has a depression in the center of the chest over the sternum, and this may appear quite deep.

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 together with other syndromes.

Causes    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Contact your health care provider if:

Discuss pectus excavatum with your health care provider at each regular visit.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit    Return to top

Your health care provider will take a medical history and perform a physical examination.

Medical history questions may include:

Physical examination:

An infant with pectus excavatum may have other symptoms and signs that, when taken together, define a specific syndrome or condition.

Diagnostic tests:

Laboratory studies to confirm the presence of a suspected disorder include:

Pulmonary or cardiac function tests may be done to determine how severely the lungs and heart are affected.

Intervention:

This condition can be surgically repaired. Surgery is generally advised if you have other problems, such as trouble exercising. In addition, some people undergo surgery for cosmetic reasons. Your health care provider can help you make decisions about your therapy.

After seeing your health care provider:

If your health care provider made a diagnosis related to pectus excavatum, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.

Update Date: 11/12/2007

Updated by: Rachel A. Lewis, M.D., F.A.A.P., Columbia University Pediatric Faculty Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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