Definition

Pectus excavatum is the descriptive term for an abnormal formation of the rib cage, in which the distance from the breastbone (sternum) to the backbone (vertebrae) is decreased, giving the chest a caved-in or sunken appearance.

Alternative Names

Funnel chest

Considerations

Pectus excavatum is a congenital 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 costosternal cartilage (the connective tissue joining the ribs to the breastbone), which causes an inward deformity 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.

Causes

• Isolated defect (i.e., not associated with other problems)
• Familial pectus excavatum
• Marfan's syndrome
• Rickets

Review Date: 1/20/2004
Reviewed By: John Goldenring, M.D., M.P.H., Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.