PECTUS EXCAVATUM Meaning and
Definition
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Pectus excavatum is a congenital condition characterized by an abnormal inward curvature or depression of the sternum, the bone located in the middle of the chest. Also known as funnel chest or sunken chest, it is a deformity that affects the shape and appearance of the chest wall.
In individuals with pectus excavatum, the sternum and adjacent rib cartilages are pushed inward, creating a concave or caved-in appearance on the chest. The severity of the indentation can vary, ranging from mild to severe. This condition usually becomes noticeable during childhood or puberty when growth spurts occur, and may continue to worsen with age.
The exact cause of pectus excavatum remains unknown, although it is believed to result from an overgrowth of the rib cartilages during development. In some cases, it may be associated with genetic factors or certain underlying conditions such as connective tissue disorders or scoliosis.
Although pectus excavatum is primarily a cosmetic concern, it can also impact lung and heart function in severe cases. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath with exertion, exercise intolerance, and decreased stamina. Treatment options for pectus excavatum include observation, corrective surgery, or less invasive techniques such as chest wall bracing or vacuum bell therapy.
Early intervention and proper management can help improve both the physical appearance and functional aspects of the chest, providing relief to individuals affected by pectus excavatum.
Common Misspellings for PECTUS EXCAVATUM
- oectus excavatum
- lectus excavatum
- -ectus excavatum
- 0ectus excavatum
- pwctus excavatum
- psctus excavatum
- pdctus excavatum
- prctus excavatum
- p4ctus excavatum
- p3ctus excavatum
- pextus excavatum
- pevtus excavatum
- peftus excavatum
- pedtus excavatum
- pecrus excavatum
- pecfus excavatum
- pecgus excavatum
- pecyus excavatum
- pec6us excavatum
- pec5us excavatum
Etymology of PECTUS EXCAVATUM
The term "Pectus Excavatum" originates from Latin.
- "Pectus" is a noun in Latin, which means "chest" or "breast". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "pek-", related to the Sanskrit word "paksas" (meaning "side of the body" or "armpit") and the Greek word "pektos" (meaning "solid" or "solidified").
- "Excavatum" is an adjective derived from the Latin verb "excavare", which means "to hollow out" or "to excavate". It is made up of the prefix "ex-" (meaning "out") and the verb "cavare" (meaning "to hollow" or "to dig").
Therefore, "Pectus Excavatum" literally translates to "hollowed-out chest".
