What is the cause of Pectus excavatum?
Considerations: 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. Common Causes: Isolated defect (i.e., not associated with other problems) Familial pectus excavatum Marfan’s syndrome Rickets I have a friend who has a protruding sternum, some what of the opposite of this.
