PIGEON BREAST Meaning and
Definition
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Pigeon breast refers to a condition known as pectus carinatum, which is characterized by the abnormal protrusion of the sternum and ribs, resulting in a distinct chest deformity. The condition gets its name from the similarity of the chest shape to that of a pigeon's breast. Pigeon breast is often genetic, but it can also occur as a result of certain medical conditions, such as rickets or scoliosis, or due to prolonged poor posture during childhood.
Individuals with pigeon breast typically have a prominent sternum that sticks outwards, causing the ribs to curve inwards. The appearance is often visually obvious and can cause significant psychological and social impact on the affected person. Furthermore, the condition may lead to discomfort, limited lung capacity, and restricted physical activities.
Treatment options for pigeon breast depend on various factors, including the age of the individual and the severity of the deformity. Non-surgical approaches may involve the use of braces or orthotic devices that are designed to apply consistent pressure to the chest, gradually correcting the chest shape over time. If non-surgical methods are not effective, surgical intervention might be considered, which usually involves reshaping the chest through the use of implants or through a surgical procedure to remove and reshape the affected bone and cartilage.
Overall, pigeon breast is a chest deformity characterized by the forward protrusion of the sternum and ribs, resembling the shape of a pigeon's breast. It can cause physical discomfort and have psychological consequences for the affected individual, and treatment may involve non-surgical or surgical interventions depending on the severity of the condition.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PIGEON BREAST
- oigeon breast
- ligeon breast
- -igeon breast
- 0igeon breast
- pugeon breast
- pjgeon breast
- pkgeon breast
- pogeon breast
- p9geon breast
- p8geon breast
- pifeon breast
- piveon breast
- pibeon breast
- piheon breast
- piyeon breast
- piteon breast
- pigwon breast
- pigson breast
- pigdon breast
Etymology of PIGEON BREAST
The term "pigeon breast" refers to a medical condition called pectus carinatum, where the chest protrudes forward resembling the breast of a pigeon. The etymology of this term is derived from the resemblance of the condition to the breast of a pigeon.
The word "pigeon" comes from the Old French word "pijon", which originally referred to a young bird. Over time, it evolved to specifically mean a young dove or pigeon. The word "breast" comes from the Old English word "brēost", which refers to the front part of the torso.
The term "pigeon breast" first appeared in medical literature in the late 18th century, and its usage in describing the outwardly protruding chest shape was likely due to its perceived similarity to the rounded breast of a pigeon.
Similar spelling words for PIGEON BREAST
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