Which of the following is true regarding pectus excavatum?

• A. It causes difficulty in breathing.
• B. It is always associated with heart disease.
• C. It may be associated with mitral valve prolapse.
• D. It requires surgical intervention in all cases.

Answer: (C)

Pectus excavatum, a condition characterized by a depression of the sternum, can indeed be associated with mitral valve prolapse. This association is primarily due to the potential overlapping in connective tissue disorders, which can present both structural anomalies of the thoracic cage and valvular heart disease. While the presence of pectus excavatum does not guarantee mitral valve prolapse, there is a notable correlation in some patients, particularly those with conditions like Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which are known to affect connective tissue integrity.

This relationship highlights the importance of comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation in individuals diagnosed with pectus excavatum, especially if they exhibit other signs of connective tissue disorders or present with symptoms suggestive of valvular heart issues. Therefore, recognizing this association can aid in the appropriate management and monitoring of patients with pectus excavatum.