Pectus carinatum

Alternative names:

chicken breast; pigeon breast

Definition:

An protrusion of the chest over the sternum often described as bird-like.

Considerations:

Pectus carinatum may occur as a solitary abnormality or in association with other syndromes.

People with pectus carinatum have a protruding sternum with a narrow depression along the sides of the chest. This gives the chest a bowed-out appearance similar to that of a pigeon.

The major problem associated with pectus carinatum itself is cosmetic. Pectus carinatum may be associated with other genetic diseases.

Common causes:

• congenital pectus carinatum (present at birth)
• trisomy 18
• homocystinuria
• Marfan's syndrome
• Morquio syndrome
• multiple lentigines syndrome
• osteogenesis imperfecta

Note: There may be other causes of pectus carinatum. 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 carinatum, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial