Definition of Pectus excavatum:

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

Considerations:

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.

Common Causes:

Pectus excavatum will often occur by itself without any family history or other defects or problems. Other causes include:

• Familial pectus excavatum
• Marfan syndrome
• Poland syndrome
• Rickets