Pectus Carinatum
Pronunciation: PECK-tuss care-ih-NAH-tum
Congenital chest wall deformity causing anterior protrusion of the sternum and ribs.
Full Definition
Pectus carinatum, also known as 'pigeon chest,' is a congenital chest wall deformity characterized by anterior protrusion of the sternum and adjacent costal cartilages, creating a bird-like appearance of the chest. This condition is less common than pectus excavatum, occurring in approximately 1 in 1,500 births with a 4:1 male predominance. Unlike pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum rarely causes cardiopulmonary compromise but can lead to significant psychological distress due to cosmetic concerns. Treatment options include observation for mild cases, bracing therapy during adolescent growth spurts, or surgical correction via the Ravitch procedure for severe cases or failed conservative management.
Usage
Usage note: Often called 'pigeon chest' but medical documentation should use the formal Latin term.
In Context
- "The adolescent patient presented with moderate pectus carinatum causing social anxiety." — clinic note
- "Bracing therapy was initiated for the flexible pectus carinatum deformity." — treatment plan