Pectus excavatum

Considerations:
Pectus excavatum is a congenital abnormality that can be mild or fairly marked. The child typically has a hollow in the center of the chest over the sternum, and this may appear quite deep. It is caused by excessive growth of the costosternal cartilage (the connective tissue joining the ribs to the breastbone), with resulting inward deformity of the sternum.

Because of its cosmetic appearance, a pectus excavatum may produce psychological problems in an individual.

Pectus excavatum may occur as the only abnormality, or in association with other syndromes.

Common Causes:

Note: There may be other causes of pectus excavatum. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for pectus excavatum, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Home Care:
No specific care is indicated for this condition.

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:



What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting pectus excavatum in detail may include:

  • When did you first notice this?
  • Is it getting better, worse, or staying the same?
  • Have any other family members had an unusual-shaped chest?
  • What other symptoms are also present?

Physical examination:
An infant with pectus excavatum may have other symptoms and signs that, when taken together, define a specific syndrome or condition.

Diagnostic tests:
Laboratory studies such as chromosome studies , enzyme assays, X-rays, or metabolic studies may be ordered to confirm the presence of a suspected disorder. No specific therapy is needed. Surgery is cosmetic.

Intervention:
This cosmetic condition can be surgically repaired. Surgery can simply remove excessive cartilage tissue, resulting in a normal chest shape.

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to pectus excavatum, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.


Pectus excavatum is a condition in which the "breast bone" (sternum) appears sunken and the chest concave. It is sometimes called "funnel chest". The majority of these cases are not associated with any other condition (isolated findings). However, some syndromes include pectus excavatum.