Pectus carinatum
| Pectus carinatum | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Pigeon chest, pectus carinatum, bird chest, convex chest, keel chest |
| Side view of a child with pectus carinatum | |
| Pronunciation |
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| Specialty | Orthopedics |
| Complications |
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| Types |
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| Causes | Unknown |
| Treatment |
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| Prognosis | Excellent |
| Frequency | 1 in 1,000 children |
Pectus carinatum, also called pigeon chest or pidgon breast, is a malformation of the chest characterized by a protrusion of the sternum and ribs. It is distinct from the related malformation pectus excavatum.
Pectus carinatum has an estimated prevalence of approximately 1 in 1,000 to 1,500 live births, though specific figures vary geographically. It is generally less common than pectus excavatum. The condition is more frequently observed in males, with a male-to-female ratio ranging from 4:1 to 7:1. It typically becomes more noticeable during periods of rapid growth, such as early adolescence.