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Pectus carinatum

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Illustrations

Ribcage
Ribcage
Bowed chest (pigeon breast)
Bowed chest (pigeon breast)

Alternative Names    Return to top

Pigeon breast

Definition    Return to top

Pectus carinatum describes a protrusion of the chest over the sternum, often described as giving the person a bird-like appearance.

Considerations    Return to top

Pectus carinatum may occur as a solitary abnormality or in association with other genetic disorders or syndromes.The condition causes the sternum to protrude, with a narrow depression along the sides of the chest. This gives the chest a bowed-out appearance similar to that of a pigeon.

People with pectus carinatum generally develop normal hearts and lungs, but the deformity may prevent these from functioning optimally. There is some evidence that pectus carinatum may prevent complete expiration of air from the lungs in children. These young people may have a decrease in stamina, even if they do not recognize it.

Apart from the possible physiologic consequences, pectus deformities can have a significant psychologic impact. Some children live happily with pectus carinatum. For others, though, the shape of the chest can damage their self-image and self-confidence, possibly disrupting connections with others.

Causes    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

No specific care is indicated for this condition.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if you notice that your child's chest seems abnormal in shape.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit    Return to top

A brace may be used to treat children and young adolescents.

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about the patient's medical history and symptoms. Question may include:

Pulmonary function testing may be useful to determine the impact of the deformity on the performance of the heart and lungs. Laboratory studies such as chromosome studies, enzyme assays, x-rays, or metabolic studies may be ordered to confirm the presence of a suspected disorder.

Surgery is a possible treatment option. There have been some reports of improved exercise ability and improved lung perfusion scans after surgery.

Update Date: 9/29/2006

Updated by: Patrika M. Tsai, MD, MPH, Specialist in Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Foster City, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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