Chest Wall Depression Deformity: Pectus Excavatum
The question asks to identify the medical term for a common depression deformity of the chest wall. This type of deformity involves an inward sinking of the breastbone (sternum) and surrounding ribs.
Identifying Pectus Excavatum
- Pectus excavatum, also known as "hollow chest", is characterized by a depression or caving in of the sternum. This is the condition described as a depression deformity of the chest wall.
Evaluating Other Options
- Pectus carinatum: This is a chest wall deformity where the sternum protrudes outward ("pigeon chest"), not inward.
- Manubrial gladiolar prominence: This term suggests an outward prominence, not a depression, likely in the upper sternum.
- Kyphosis: This refers to an abnormal outward curvature of the spine, leading to a hunched posture, and is not a chest wall deformity itself.
Therefore, Pectus excavatum is the correct term for a depression deformity of the chest wall.