Kyphoscoliosis, pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum

Kyphoscoliosis, pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum

Kyphoscoliosis, pectus excavatum, and pectus carinatum are three different types of chest wall deformities that can affect the shape and function of the chest and respiratory system. 

Kyphoscoliosis:

Kyphoscoliosis is a condition in which the spine is curved in both the lateral and anterior-posterior planes, leading to a hunchback appearance. 

Causes of Kyphoscoliosis

• Congenital

Kyphoscoliosis can be caused by congenital defects or malformations of the spine.

• Neuromuscular disorders

Neuromuscular disorders such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and spinal muscular atrophy can cause kyphoscoliosis.

• Idiopathic

In some cases, the cause of kyphoscoliosis is unknown.

Symptoms of Kyphoscoliosis

• Abnormal curvature of the spine

The primary symptom of kyphoscoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that can cause a hunchback appearance.

• Back pain

Pain in the back or neck is a common symptom of kyphoscoliosis.

• Breathing difficulties

Severe cases of kyphoscoliosis can cause breathing difficulties due to compression of the lungs.

• Fatigue

Feeling tired or weak is a common symptom of kyphoscoliosis.

Diagnosis of Kyphoscoliosis

• Physical examination

A thorough examination of the spine and chest is performed to assess the presence of kyphoscoliosis.

• Imaging tests

Imaging tests such as X-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be used to visualize the spine and determine the extent of the curvature.

• Pulmonary function tests

Pulmonary function tests measure how well the lungs are functioning and can help diagnose breathing difficulties associated with kyphoscoliosis.

Pectus Excavatum:

Pectus excavatum is a condition in which the sternum (breastbone) is depressed in a concave shape, causing the chest to appear sunken. 

Causes of Pectus Excavatum

• Congenital

Pectus excavatum is usually present at birth and is caused by overgrowth of the costal cartilages (ribs).

• Genetic factors 

Pectus excavatum can run in families and may be caused by genetic factors.

Symptoms of Pectus Excavatum

• Sunken chest

The primary symptom of pectus excavatum is a sunken appearance of the chest.

• Breathing difficulties

Severe cases of pectus excavatum can cause breathing difficulties due to compression of the lungs.

• Chest pain

Pain in the chest, especially while breathing or coughing, can be a symptom of pectus excavatum.

• Poor self-image

Some people with pectus excavatum may experience poor self-image and avoidance of social situations.

Diagnosis of Pectus Excavatum

• Physical examination

A thorough examination of the chest is performed to assess the presence of pectus excavatum.

• Imaging tests

Imaging tests such as chest X-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be used to visualize the chest and determine the extent of the depression.

• Pulmonary function tests

Pulmonary function tests measure how well the lungs are functioning and can help diagnose breathing difficulties associated with pectus excavatum.

Pectus Carinatum:

Pectus carinatum is a condition in which the sternum (breastbone) protrudes in a convex shape, causing the chest to appear bird-like. 

Causes of Pectus Carinatum

• Congenital

Pectus carinatum is usually present at birth and is caused by a disorder of the cartilage that joins the ribs to the breastbone.

• Genetic factors

Pectus carinatum can run in families and may be caused by genetic factors.

• Connective tissue disorders

Pectus carinatum can be associated with connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome.

Symptoms of Pectus Carinatum

• Bird-like chest

The primary symptom of pectus carinatum is a bird-like appearance of the chest.

• Breathing difficulties

Severe cases of pectus carinatum can cause breathing difficulties due to compression of the lungs.

• Chest pain

Pain in the chest, especially while breathing or coughing, can be a symptom of pectus carinatum.

Diagnosis of Pectus Carinatum

• Physical examination

A thorough examination of the chest is performed to assess the presence of pectus carinatum.

• Imaging tests

Imaging tests such as chest X-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be used to visualize the chest and determine the extent of the protrusion.

• Pulmonary function tests

Pulmonary function tests measure how well the lungs are functioning and can help diagnose breathing difficulties associated with pectus carinatum.

Or rate primary disorder.

Note (1): A 100-percent rating shall be assigned for pleurisy with empyema, with or without pleurocutaneous fistula, until resolved.

 

Note (2): Following episodes of total spontaneous pneumothorax, a rating of 100 percent shall be assigned as of the date of hospital admission and shall continue for three months from the first day of the month after hospital discharge.

 

Note (3): Gunshot wounds of the pleural cavity with bullet or missile retained in lung, pain or discomfort on exertion, or with scattered rales or some limitation of excursion of diaphragm or of lower chest expansion shall be rated at least 20-percent disabling. Disabling injuries of shoulder girdle muscles (Groups I to IV) shall be separately rated and combined with ratings for respiratory involvement. Involvement of Muscle Group XXI (DC 5321), however, will not be separately rated.