Question
If a person’s chest protrudes outward more than usual, with prominent and uncomfortable bones, and even leads to hunchback, is this what is medically referred to as pigeon chest?
Answer
Pigeon chest refers to a condition where the sternum protrudes forward prominently, while the ribs slope downward and inward, making the chest resemble a bird’s sternum. This situation is usually caused by rickets during childhood, due to insufficient vitamin D in the body, leading to calcium-phosphorus absorption disorders, resulting in osteomalacia. This causes the ribs to sink inward at the junction with the sternum, thereby forming pigeon chest. According to the description provided, it may not be a typical case of pigeon chest. If there is concern, it is recommended to consult a doctor for further examination.