Chest dimples can refer to a few different things, but most commonly it refers to pectus excavatum, a condition where the breastbone sinks into the chest. It appears as a dent or hollow in the chest.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Pectus Excavatum: The "Funnel Chest"
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Definition: Pectus excavatum is a congenital deformity of the chest wall, where the sternum (breastbone) and ribs grow abnormally, causing a sunken or caved-in appearance. It's also known as "funnel chest" or "sunken chest."
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Appearance: This condition gives the chest a concave shape, creating a visible depression or "dimple." The severity can vary significantly from a mild, barely noticeable indentation to a deep, pronounced cavity.
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Cause: The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be related to abnormal growth of the cartilage connecting the ribs and the sternum. It sometimes runs in families, suggesting a genetic component.
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Symptoms: While primarily a cosmetic concern, severe pectus excavatum can compress the heart and lungs, leading to:
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Heart murmurs
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Treatment: Treatment options range from observation for mild cases to surgery (Nuss procedure or Ravitch procedure) for more severe cases that impact heart and lung function.
Other Potential Causes (Less Common)
While pectus excavatum is the most likely cause, dimples or indentations on the chest could also be caused by:
- Injury: Trauma to the chest area could cause a dent or indentation.
- Surgery: Previous chest surgeries can sometimes result in indentations.
- Lipomas or other growths: Though less likely to present as a dimple, some growths could create a subtle indentation.
Important Note: If you notice a new or changing dimple on your chest, it's crucial to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause and rule out any serious medical conditions.
