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Mystery of the Missing Minor: A Cadaveric Study
1Department of Anatomy, Sree Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences, Ernakulam, Kerala, India.
Annals of African Medicine
|November 20, 2025
Summary
A rare congenital absence of the pectoralis minor muscle was found in a male cadaver. This anatomical variation underscores the importance of recognizing pectoral muscle anomalies in clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Morphology
- Human Anatomy
Background:
- The pectoralis minor (PMi) muscle is integral to pectoral anatomy, connecting the upper limb to the thoracic cage.
- Anatomical variations in the pectoral region can have significant clinical implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of unilateral congenital absence of the pectoralis minor muscle.
- To emphasize the clinical significance of anatomical variations in pectoral muscles.
Main Methods:
- Routine anatomical dissection of a male cadaver.
- Observation and documentation of pectoral muscle morphology.
Main Results:
- A unilateral congenital absence of the pectoralis minor muscle was identified.
- This represents a rare anatomical variation in pectoral muscle development.
Conclusions:
- Congenital absence of the pectoralis minor is a rare finding with clinical relevance.
- Awareness of such anatomical variations is crucial for medical professionals in diagnosis and surgical planning.
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