Pectus Carinatum and Constipation in Toddlers

What is pectus carinatum and baby constipation?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask what pectus carinatum (commonly known as pigeon chest) is.
My daughter is currently one year and four months old, and her chest appears somewhat muscular, but it is not very protruding.
Is this what is referred to as pigeon chest? Thank you.

Additionally, my daughter has been experiencing constipation for 4 to 5 days, with her bowel movements decreasing from 3 to 4 times a day to once a day or once every two days.
Can I make her milk a bit thicker? She currently drinks about 700cc to 1000cc of water a day.
Is this amount too little? Thank you, doctor.

Bei de mami, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/06/27

Dr. Chen Rongtai reply Pediatrics

Pectus carinatum, also known as pigeon chest, is a congenital chest wall deformity characterized by the protrusion of the costal cartilages and sternum in the lower half of the thorax, making the central part of the chest appear more prominent than the sides.
It is a relatively rare congenital anomaly, with an incidence of approximately 0.06% according to foreign statistics, and is more common in males.
Most cases are sporadic, but some may be associated with connective tissue disorders and can be accompanied by scoliosis, mitral valve disease, or aortic coarctation.
Pectus carinatum typically does not affect cardiopulmonary function, so treatment may not be necessary.
However, some patients may seek treatment for cosmetic reasons or psychological factors, in which case surgical correction is the only option.

Regarding constipation, it is related to various factors, including diet, fluid intake, bowel habits, and individual constitution.
Increasing the concentration of milk may not effectively address constipation.
It is recommended to first adjust dietary habits by increasing the intake of solid foods, fiber, and fluids.
If there is no improvement, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a physician.

Reply Date: 2006/06/27

More Info

Pectus carinatum, commonly referred to as "pigeon chest," is a condition characterized by an abnormal protrusion of the sternum and rib cage. This deformity can vary in severity, and while it is often noticeable in children, it may not always be associated with significant health issues. In your case, since your daughter is only 16 months old and you mention that her chest appears somewhat muscular but not excessively protruding, it is possible that what you are observing is a mild form of pectus carinatum or simply a normal variation in chest shape for her age. It is important to note that many children have variations in their chest shapes as they grow, and these often resolve naturally over time. If you have concerns about the appearance of her chest or if it seems to be causing her discomfort, it would be advisable to consult a pediatrician for a thorough evaluation.

Regarding your daughter's constipation, it is not uncommon for toddlers to experience changes in bowel habits. A shift from having multiple bowel movements a day to having them less frequently can be concerning for parents. Constipation in toddlers can be caused by several factors, including dietary changes, dehydration, or even stress. In your case, since your daughter has not had a bowel movement for 4 to 5 days, it is important to address this issue.

Increasing fluid intake is crucial in managing constipation. While you mentioned that she drinks between 700cc to 1000cc of water daily, this amount may be on the lower side for a toddler, especially if she is experiencing constipation. The general recommendation for toddlers is to consume about 1.2 liters (or approximately 1200cc) of fluids per day, which includes water, milk, and other beverages. Therefore, you might consider increasing her fluid intake, particularly water, to help alleviate her constipation.

As for your question about making her milk "thicker," it is essential to clarify what you mean. If you are considering adding more milk to her diet, it is generally acceptable, but be cautious about the total volume of milk she consumes. Too much milk can sometimes lead to constipation in toddlers, as it may reduce their appetite for other fiber-rich foods. Instead of thickening the milk, focus on providing a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are high in fiber and can help promote regular bowel movements.

If her constipation persists despite these dietary adjustments, or if she shows signs of discomfort, such as straining to have a bowel movement or abdominal pain, it would be wise to consult a pediatrician. They may recommend additional interventions, such as a fiber supplement or a gentle laxative, to help relieve her constipation.

In summary, while pectus carinatum may not be a significant concern at this stage, monitoring your daughter's chest shape and consulting a pediatrician if you have concerns is advisable. For her constipation, increasing her fluid intake and ensuring a fiber-rich diet can be beneficial. If issues persist, seeking medical advice is the best course of action.

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