Pectus excavatum is caused by the abnormal growth in the chest of the connective tissues (cartilage) that attach the breastbone (sternum) to the ribs. This causes a depression in the chest that can range from mild to severe. Both or just one side of the breastbone may be affected. While most patients do not have symptoms, those with severe forms of the abnormality may experience:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Older children may develop issues involving self-image or self-confidence
#causes of pectus excavatum
The cause of the disorder is not known. However, it tends to occur in families, which may mean that genetics play a role. About 40 percent of children diagnosed with the disorder have one or more family members with the same defect.
The condition also can be associated with inherited connective tissue disorders like #Marfan #syndrome and #Ehlers-#Danlos #syndrome, as well as with #rickets and #scoliosis.
#Diagnosis of pectus excavatum
Most cases of pectus excavatum are identified when children are still infants. The condition can become more noticeable during puberty, when rapid bone and cartilage growth occurs.
#St. Louis Children’s #Hospital #pediatric surgeons recommend that children undergo evaluation as soon as the possibility of pectus excavatum is suspected. The early diagnosis allows physicians to follow patients as they grow and ensure they don’t develop symptoms, or that existing symptoms do not worsen.
Diagnosing pectus excavatum involves:
- A thorough physical exam
2 Detailed family history - X-rays to help determine the severity of the depression
If necessary, diagnostic imaging scans like #computed #tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (#MRI) to define the chest’s anatomy
#Echocardiogram and electrocardiogram to test heart function
#Pulmonary function tests to detect breathing problems
#Genetic testing for those who are suspected of having related syndromes
#Treatment
Surgery For Repairing Anatomical Structure and Removing abnormal growing Cartilage