Age / Sex : 44 / M

Sternal foramen

Discussion

Findings:

CT images
show round shape bony defect in inferior sternal body.

Differential Diagnosis:

Diagnosis:
 

Sternal
foramen

Discussion:

Sternal
foramen is a variant anatomy of the sternum with a reported prevalence between
4.3 and 6.7% [1]. These are developmental anomalies of incomplete fusion of
ossification centers [2, 3], and most are round defects at the lower third of
the sternal body [1]. It is usually asymptomatic and could be detected by CT
incidentally [5]. These developmental anomalies are known to be the result of
incomplete fusion of multiple ossification centers [4].

It is difficult
to visualize sternal foramina by radiography. Cross-sectional imaging such as
CT and MRI is generally required. CT with multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) may
show relevant anatomic detail of sternal variations and anomalies. Multiplanar
reconstructed CT or curved-planar MPR images were helpful in wholly revealing
sternal anatomy [1]. Awareness of MDCT appearances of sternal foramina provides
a better differential diagnosis with pathologic conditions.

References:

1.  Yekeler E, Tunaci M, Tunaci A, Dursun M,
Acunas G. Frequency of sternal variations and anomalies evaluated by MDCT. AJR
Am J Roentgenol. 2006;186:956-960

2. Cooper
PD1, Stewart JH, McCormick WF. Development and morphology of the sternal
foramen. Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 1988;9:342-347.

3. Aktan ZA,
Savas R. Anatomic and HRCT demonstra- tion of midline sternal foramina. Turkish
Journal of Medical Sciences. 1998;28:511–514

4. Fokin AA.
Cleft sternum and sternal foramen. Chest Surg Clin N Am. 2000;10:261-276.

5. Schratter
M, Bijak M, Nissel H, Gruber I, Schratter- Sehn AU. The foramen sternale: a
minor anomaly— great relevance [in German]. Rofo 1997;166:69–71