The straight back syndrome.

Chest wall deformities may produce signs that closely mimic organic heart disease. In this category, the straight back syndrome is well recognized. Although clinical identification of this syndrome is thought sufficient to withdraw from any further investigation, its association with idiopathic mitral valve prolapse--a cardiac lesion with considerable morbidity and mortality--may be underestimated. The literature on straight back syndrome is reviewed and its association with mitral valve prolapse discussed.