What is Pectus excavatum?
Q: What is Pectus excavatum?
A: Pectus excavatum is a medical condition where the ribs and sternum grow abnormally, causing a sunken appearance to the chest.
Q: What are some common names for Pectus excavatum?
A: Pectus excavatum is commonly referred to as "funnel chest" or "chest bowl".
Q: How common is Pectus excavatum?
A: Pectus excavatum occurs in approximately 1 in 300-400 births.
Q: Is there a gender difference in the prevalence of Pectus excavatum?
A: Yes, Pectus excavatum has a 3:1 male predominance ratio.
Q: At what age does Pectus excavatum typically develop properly?
A: Although it occurs at birth, Pectus excavatum often does not develop properly until early adolescence when growth is more rapid.
Q: Is Pectus excavatum a genetic condition?
A: Pectus excavatum is often considered a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth, although some cases may have a genetic component.
Q: What physical feature is characteristic of Pectus excavatum?
A: The defining characteristic of Pectus excavatum is a sunken or caved-in appearance to the chest.
