Patient's question:
I feel that my chest protrudes outward more than usual, looking very strong, but it's actually all bone. When standing straight, it becomes even more noticeable. Moreover, the bones also feel uncomfortable, which has led to some hunchback. I want to ask if this is pectus excavatum?Doctor's answer:
Pigeon chest refers to a condition where the sternum protrudes forward significantly each day, and the ribs slope downward and inward, causing the chest to resemble the sternum of a pigeon or bird. This is why it is called "pigeon chest." Pigeon chest is often caused by rickets in children, which results from insufficient vitamin D in the body, leading to impaired calcium and phosphorus absorption and the development of osteomalacia. The depression at the connection between the ribs and the sternum causes the sternum to protrude forward, forming pigeon chest. Based on your condition, it does not seem like pigeon chest. If you are still concerned, you can go to the hospital for a check-up!