What are the features of Poland syndrome?
While the complete expression of the physical changes associated with Poland syndrome vary among patients, common themes include: (1) underdevelopment or absence of the main chest muscle (pectoralis) as well as secondary muscles of the chest and armpit region; (2) the end of the pectoralis muscle attachment to the breastbone (sternum) is absent; (3) the nipple, areola, and (in females) underlying breast tissue is underdeveloped or absent; (4) short and webbed fingers (cutaneous syndactyly) on the affected side; and (5) armpit hair on the affected side is missing. What other defects are associated with Poland syndrome? The child with Poland syndrome usually is entirely normal except for the problems already noted. The skin in the involved area may be abnormally thinned or missing underlying fat normally present beneath the skin. Very rarely, the rib cage on the involved side may be underdeveloped or missing. Equally rare may be the abnormal development of the shoulder blade (scapula) or
