MANUAL OF CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS
Chest wall abnormalities are structural deformities that affect the shape and function of the thorax. These conditions can be either congenital or acquired and may significantly impact respiratory function, cardiovascular health, and body aesthetics.
Chest wall deformities include a range of presentations, from protrusions and depressions of the sternum to abnormal spinal curvatures and bone defects. Identifying and managing these abnormalities are crucial for improving the patient’s quality of life and preventing further complications.
Pathology | Clinical Symptoms and Signs | Suspected Diagnosis | Confirmatory Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|---|
Pectus Carinatum | Protrusion of the sternum, respiratory difficulty, occasional chest pain | Physical examination, observation of the protrusion | Chest X-ray, computed tomography (CT) |
Pectus Excavatum | Depression of the sternum, respiratory difficulty, palpitations, fatigue | Physical examination, observation of the depression | Chest X-ray, CT scan, echocardiogram |
Kyphosis | Abnormal curvature of the spine, back pain, hunched posture | Physical examination, observation of the curvature | Spinal X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) |
Scoliosis | Lateral curvature of the spine, shoulder asymmetry, back pain | Physical examination, observation of the asymmetry | Spinal X-ray, MRI |
Absence of Part of the Bone Structure | Visible defect in the thoracic structure, pain, recurrent infections | Physical examination, clinical history | Chest X-ray, CT scan, MRI |
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