Genetic counseling of cleft sternum

Cleft sternum is a rare malformation, either superior, inferior or total, which is frequently associated with supraumbilical raphé. Such a case is reported. Sometimes cavernous hemangiomata are noted. It occurs subsequent to disturbances of abdominal wall midline fusion. The etiology is unknown. The recurrence risk is probably nil, but one familial case must be taken into consideration.