Objective effect manifestation of pectus excavatum on load-stressed pulmonary function testing: a case report

• Main Authors: Chan Jason, Huang Wei
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2011-12-01
• Series: Journal of Medical Case Reports
• Online Access: http://www.jmedicalcasereports.com/content/5/1/592

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Pectus excavatum is the most common congenital deformity of the anterior chest wall that, under certain conditions, may pose functional problems due to cardiopulmonary compromise and exercise intolerance.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>We present the case of an otherwise physically-adept 21-year-old Chinese sportsman with idiopathic pectus excavatum, whose symptoms manifested only on bearing a loaded body vest and backpack during physical exercise. Corroborative objective evidence was obtained via load-stressed pulmonary function testing, which demonstrated restrictive lung function.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>This report highlights the possible detrimental synergism of thoracic load stress and pectus excavatum on cardiopulmonary function. Thoracic load-stressed pulmonary function testing provides objective evidence in support of such a synergistic relationship.</p>