Uncovering the Causes of Pectus Carinatum: Everything You Need to Know

​Pectus carinatum is a rare condition that affects nearly 1 in 1000 teens. It affects a person's chest wall, causing it to stand outward. The condition is commonly known as “pigeon chest” due to the shape of the chest wall when affected.

This condition can be very uncomfortable and affect a person’s quality of life and self-esteem. The treatment can include a variety of options. And early identification is crucial, so that professionals can cure it with noninvasive methods.

So, if you or someone you know is dealing with pectus carinatum, look no further. In this article, we are going to show you:

• What is pectus carinatum
• What the symptoms are
• What are the causes
• How it can be diagnosed
• And treatments for the condition
  
  

What Is Pectus Carinatum?

Pectus carinatum is a medical condition that affects the development of the chest wall. It’s a condition of abnormal growth of the cartilage and ribs of the chest wall, causing it to bulge outwards. Due to the shape of the chest wall, the disease is sometimes called “pigeon chest.”

It's usually present at birth but can also develop during childhood or adolescence. And it’s more common in males than females. The condition can range from mild to severe:

• Mild cases: The chest wall may only bulge slightly and may not need any treatment.
• Severe cases: The chest wall may clearly bulge. It may cause difficulty breathing, discomfort, and even pain. Severe cases can also cause emotional suffering due to their visible appearance.
  
  

What Are the Symptoms of Pectus Carinatum?

Symptoms of pectus carinatum include:

• Bulging of the chest wall: The chest wall will appear to be pushed outwards. It's more noticeable when a person is standing up.
• Sensitiveness to touch: In the area of the chest wall that bulges.
• Difficulty breathing and/or pain: That is caused due to the pressure of the chest wall pushing against the lungs and heart.
• Fatigue and/or dizziness: Due to the difficulty in taking in enough air.
• Hooked shoulders
• Lateral curvature in the spine
  
  

Pectus Carinatum Causes

The exact cause of pectus carinatum is unknown. Yet, some factors may contribute to the development of the condition. 

These factors include:

• Genetics: The condition is caused by a mutation in certain genes. These genes are responsible for the development of the chest wall and the formation of cartilage and ribs.
• Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors may also contribute to the development of pectus carinatum. These factors include smoking or exposure to certain chemicals.
• Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Marfan syndrome, scoliosis, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, are also associated with pectus carinatum.
• Trauma to the chest wall: In some cases, pectus carinatum can be caused by injuries and trauma to the chest wall.
  
  

How is Pectus Carinatum Diagnosed?

Pectus carinatum can be diagnosed through physical examination, imaging tests, and genetic tests.
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• Physical examination: During the examination, the doctor will examine the chest wall for any signs of the condition. He will check for other abnormalities, like chest deformity or difficulty breathing.
• Imaging tests: It includes X-rays or CT scans to better look at the chest wall. These tests can help the doctor determine how severe the condition is.
• Genetic test: The goal of a genetic test is to determine if a genetic mutation causes the condition.
  
  

How is Pectus Carinatum Treated?

Treatment for pectus carinatum depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, no treatment may be necessary.

Yet, in more severe cases, professionals may suggest treatment. Because it can be necessary to reduce the symptoms and improve the appearance of the chest wall.

One of the most common treatments for pectus carinatum is a surgical procedure. It involves the insertion of a metal bar into the chest wall to push the chest wall back into its normal position. This procedure is usually done under general anesthesia, and is very invasive.

You can also treat it by using a brace to help push the chest wall back into its normal position. It can be an effective treatment, and it’s way less invasive than a surgical procedure. The downside is that it must be worn several hours a day for several months to be effective.

Bracing is more effective for treating the condition in young children because they have more flexible chests. Once the kid starts to grow, and the bones become more rigid and formed, bracing isn’t so effective. Because of that, pectus carinatum must be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Next Steps

Pectus carinatum is a medical condition that can affect your self-esteem, and cause physical symptoms. If you or someone you know is living with pectus carinatum, getting treatment is important to reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of life.

If you want to learn more about the best treatment for your specific case, book an appointment with us. We will give you specific directions based on our expertise. 

You can also take advantage of some publicly available resources:
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• The Pectus Carinatum Foundation. This foundation provides information and support to those living with pectus carinatum. It also offers a forum for people to connect with others living with the condition.
• The Pectus Carinatum Network. This network provides resources, support, and a forum for people living with pectus carinatum.

• ​National Institute of Health. The National Institute of Health provides information about pectus carinatum. The information includes treatments, research, and support resources.