Xiphoid process

Xiphoid process is a small cartilaginous process (extension) of the lower part of the sternum, which is usually ossified in the adult human. The word xiphoid comes from the Greek for "sword-like"; xiphos meaning "sword" and eidos meaning "to resemble".

Anatomy

The xiphoid process is located in the anterior chest, just below the sternum. It is the smallest and most variable part of the sternum. The xiphoid process begins as a pliable, thin, elliptical, cartilaginous structure. With age, it becomes more and more ossified.

Clinical significance

The xiphoid process plays a small role in the body's function. It serves as an attachment point for several abdominal muscles, including the diaphragm, the rectus abdominis, and the transversus thoracis muscle.

In some cases, the xiphoid process can be felt as a lump in the abdomen, which can cause concern, but is generally harmless. However, it can be a source of pain in xiphoid syndrome, a rare condition where the xiphoid process becomes inflamed.

See also

• Sternum
• Xiphoid syndrome
• Abdominal muscles

References

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  Xiphoid process frontal view
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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the xiphoid process
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  Xiphoid process in a clinical diagram
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  Animation of the xiphoid process
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  Xiphoid process from below
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  Close-up animation of the xiphoid process