Summary about Disease
Funnel chest, also known as pectus excavatum, is a congenital (present at birth) chest wall deformity where the breastbone (sternum) sinks into the chest. This creates a sunken or caved-in appearance of the chest. The severity can range from mild, with minimal impact, to severe, which can impact lung and heart function.
Symptoms
Sunken chest appearance (the most obvious symptom)
Fatigue, especially during exercise
Shortness of breath, particularly with exertion
Chest pain
Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Frequent respiratory infections (in severe cases)
Heart murmur (in some cases)
Poor posture
Causes
The exact cause of funnel chest is unknown, but it's believed to be related to abnormal growth of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum. It's often familial, suggesting a genetic component. Several theories focus on the overgrowth of cartilage forcing the sternum inward during development.
Medicine Used
Funnel chest is primarily a structural issue and medication isn't used to treat the underlying condition. Pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) might be used to manage chest pain after surgery. Medications might be required to treat associated conditions like asthma.
Is Communicable
No, funnel chest is not communicable. It is a congenital condition, not an infectious disease.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to prevent funnel chest as it is a congenital condition.
How long does an outbreak last?
Funnel chest is not an outbreak-related disease, so this question does not apply.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: A doctor can often diagnose funnel chest by visually examining the chest.
Chest X-ray: To assess the severity of the depression and to rule out other conditions.
CT Scan: Provides a more detailed image of the chest and can measure the Haller index (a ratio of the chest's width to the distance between the sternum and the spine) to determine severity.
Echocardiogram: To assess heart function.
Pulmonary Function Tests: To evaluate lung capacity and function.
Timeline of Symptoms
Funnel chest is typically present at birth or develops during childhood. The sunken chest appearance may become more noticeable during puberty as the chest wall develops. Other symptoms, such as fatigue and shortness of breath, may also become more pronounced as the individual grows. The condition is progressive, worsening with age, especially during growth spurts.
Important Considerations
Severity Varies: The severity of funnel chest can range widely, with some individuals experiencing minimal symptoms and others facing significant cardiopulmonary issues.
Psychological Impact: Funnel chest can have a significant psychological impact on individuals, leading to body image issues, anxiety, and decreased self-esteem.
Treatment Options: Surgical correction, such as the Nuss procedure or the Ravitch procedure, are options for more severe cases. Non-surgical options are sometimes appropriate for less severe cases.
Consultation with Specialists: It's essential to consult with a pediatric surgeon or a cardiothoracic surgeon experienced in treating chest wall deformities to determine the most appropriate course of action.