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Straight Back Syndrome

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Imaging findings

Straight back syndrome is characterized by the loss of normal thoracic kyphosis, which results in a reduction of the anterior-posterior diameter of the thoracic cavity. This reduction can cause the posterior aspect of the spine to impinge upon the heart, leading to secondary cardiac effects such as mitral regurgitation or rhythm disturbances.

Key takeaways

Consider straight back syndrome in patients with unexplained cardiac symptoms or a reduced thoracic anterior-posterior diameter. The skeletal anatomy can cause significant compression of the mediastinal structures, leading to secondary cardiac findings.

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