RESUMO
The latissimus dorsi is the largest muscle in the human body, located in the lower posterior thorax, and it contributes to motion in the upper extremity and provides assistance in respiration. This case report describes a rare occurrence of a unilateral absence of the latissimus dorsi accompanied by contralateral scoliosis in a 73-year-old female cadaver. The absence of the muscle along with the absence of the thoracodorsal nerve and branches of the subscapular and axillary arteries was identified during a standard dissection course. The implications of this rare case extend to an array of surgical interventions, including head, neck, breast, and torso reconstructive applications. It is important to investigate potential anomalies of the latissimus dorsi, while planning or performing free flap transfers. The report also highlights the importance of understanding this variation for educational and research purposes.
RESUMO
Poland syndrome, also known as pectoral aplasia-dysdactylia syndrome, is a rare anomaly, characterized by aplasia of the pectoralis major muscle with ipsilateral upper extremity anomalies. The cause of Poland syndrome is still unknown. Several twin patients were reported to propose a genetic or nongenetic hypothesis. We experienced a female baby showing absence of the pectoralis major muscle in a pair of mixed twin. The patient was referred to our hospital for evaluation of an asymmetric chest wall. She showed depression of the left chest wall, ipsilateral nipple hypoplasia, and axillary webbing. A chest CT scan showed aplasia of the left large pectoral muscle. Our patient had no abnormalities such as symbrachydactyly in an ipsilateral upper extremity. In comparison, a physical examination showed that the fraternal twin boy was completely normal.