Anterior displacement of the xiphoid process may be the result of significant weight gain. Repeated trauma of the afflicted area, unaccustomed heavy lifting, exercise, and perichondritis are, amongst other causes, believed to contribute to the development of xiphodynia.

Why does the bottom of my sternum stick out?

Pectus carinatum is a childhood condition in which the sternum (breastbone) sticks out more than usual. It is believed to be a disorder of the cartilage that joins the ribs to the breastbone. Diagnosis and treatment are discussed.

What is the xiphoid process lump?

A lump near your xiphoid process can be mistaken for a tumor or hernia. For an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may schedule an imaging test of the lower part of your breastbone. An X-ray can reveal damage to the xiphoid process. If X-ray results are inconclusive, your doctor may recommend further testing.

Is xiphoid process life threatening?

Damage to the xiphoid process itself is not severe. However, if the xiphoid process breaks or fractures, it is possible for bone fragments to cause damage surrounding vital organs. For example, it is possible for a bone fragment to puncture the lungs, which can be life-threatening.

How do you treat an enlarged xiphoid process?

The xiphoid process can be removed using an electrosurgical dissection of the lower sternum. This is typically referred to as a xiphoidectomy. The procedure is considered safe, with a low risk of complications. The area can feel tender for several weeks postsurgery until the wound has healed.

What is the hard lump in the middle of my chest?

A painless lump on the chest can most commonly be caused by a skin condition like an abscess, wart, or cysts. Rare causes for a painless chest wall lump include non cancerous cell growth known as lipoma, dermatofibroma, or breast cancer.

Is it normal to feel xiphoid process?

Xiphoid Process – Normal Lump at Bottom of Breastbone:

The small hard lump at the lower end of the sternum (breastbone) is normal. It is called the xiphoid process. You can feel it. It is more prominent in babies and slender children.

Is a protruding sternum normal?

Pectus carinatum, also called a protruding sternum or pigeon chest, is a rare deformity in children. It causes the chest and ribs to stick out further than they should. Only one or two children out of every thousand have a protruding sternum. This condition usually affects more boys than it does girls.

What does a tumor on sternum feel like?

Pain or soreness. Swelling. Impaired movement or chest expansion. Protrusion as with a lump.

Should there be a lump on my sternum?

Some are benign, while others may be more serious. A lump in the chest, whether in the breast, near the sternum, or elsewhere on the rib cage, is a common symptom of many different conditions. It is natural for a person to have concerns if they find a lump.

Can xiphoid process affect breathing?

If the xiphoid process pulls inward during inhalation, it is called a reversed diaphragmatic action. This can be caused by a newborn’s first breath being a gasp-like action, and can be seen in a newborn whose breathing is strained.