When people refer to the part inbetween their chest, they could be talking about one of several different anatomical structures, from the surface level down to deep internal cavities. Understanding these different parts is key to comprehending the complex makeup of the human body and identifying the source of any potential pain or discomfort.
The Surface-Level Answer: The Intermammary Cleft
At the most superficial level, the visual groove or furrow that separates the breasts is known as the intermammary cleft, or intermammary sulcus. This is not a hollow space but a surface feature created by the way the skin and underlying tissues attach to the sternum. Medically, this cleft is defined by where the fatty tissue of each breast meets the central area of the chest.
- Skin and Fascia: At the midline of this area, a deep layer of superficial fascia firmly attaches the skin to the pectoral fascia and the periosteum of the sternum.
- Support: This connective tissue forms a shelving edge that helps support the breasts.
- Breasts: In women, the breasts are divided by this cleft, which contains blood vessels, lymphatic ducts, and nerve endings.
The Bony Center: The Sternum (Breastbone)
Located beneath the intermammary cleft is a long, flat bone called the sternum, or breastbone. This is the central piece of your ribcage and a very prominent part of your chest anatomy. The sternum's main purpose is to protect the vital organs behind it, such as the heart and lungs.
The Three Parts of the Sternum
The sternum is not a single, solid bone but consists of three distinct segments that fuse over time.
- Manubrium: The wide, handle-shaped top portion. It connects to the clavicles (collarbones) and the first pair of ribs.
- Body (Gladiolus): The longest, flat central section. Ribs 2 through 7 attach to the sternal body via cartilage.
- Xiphoid Process: The smallest, most inferior portion. This pointed tip is made mostly of cartilage and can ossify (turn to bone) with age.
The Internal Space: The Mediastinum
Perhaps the most important and complex answer to the question lies deeper inside the chest. The mediastinum is the space located in the middle of your chest, nestled between your two lungs. This space contains your heart, major blood vessels, trachea, esophagus, and thymus gland, and it is a crucial area for diagnosis and treatment of many conditions.
The Subdivisions of the Mediastinum
To be more specific, the mediastinum is further divided into compartments, with the heart residing in the middle mediastinum.
- Superior Mediastinum: The top part, above the heart.
- Anterior Mediastinum: The compartment in front of the heart, between the heart and the sternum.
- Middle Mediastinum: The central region containing the heart and its protective sac, the pericardium.
- Posterior Mediastinum: The area behind the heart, in front of the spine.
Potential Causes of Pain in the Area
Pain in the middle of the chest is a common concern that can originate from various sources, not just the heart. Understanding the different structures can help pinpoint the cause.
- Costochondritis: A frequent cause of chest pain, it involves inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum.
- Acid Reflux (GERD): Gastrointestinal issues can cause a burning sensation or discomfort behind the sternum, known as substernal pain.
- Muscle Strain: Overexertion or injury to the chest muscles, including the intercostal muscles between the ribs, can cause pain.
- Other Conditions: Less common causes include sternal fractures from trauma, pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining), or lung conditions like pneumonia.
Comparison of Chest Midline Anatomy
| Anatomical Part | Location | Primary Function | Key Components |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intermammary Cleft | Surface furrow between breasts | Surface feature; skin and fascia attachment | Skin, superficial fascia |
| Sternum | Central, flat bone at the front of the chest | Protects vital organs, forms part of the ribcage | Manubrium, body, xiphoid process |
| Mediastinum | Internal space between the lungs | Houses and protects vital organs and vessels | Heart, trachea, esophagus, thymus, major blood vessels |
The Importance of Professional Medical Evaluation
Because pain in the center of the chest can indicate serious conditions, especially heart-related issues, it should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider. While most cases are benign, the classic signs of a heart attack should not be ignored, which often include a feeling of pressure or squeezing in the chest, shortness of breath, nausea, and radiating pain.
To help your doctor with a diagnosis, it is useful to track the specifics of your symptoms:
- When does the pain occur? Is it constant, or does it come and go?
- How long does it last? Is it brief, lasting seconds, or prolonged?
- What makes it better or worse? Does rest, exertion, or position affect it?
- What other symptoms are present? Any shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea?
This information can help your healthcare provider differentiate between less severe musculoskeletal or gastrointestinal problems and more serious cardiac or pulmonary issues. Your knowledge of the underlying anatomy can also be a helpful tool in communicating with your doctor about the exact location and nature of your discomfort.
Conclusion
While there is no single answer to what the part inbetween your chest is called, the most accurate responses depend on whether you are referring to the surface, bone, or internal space. The visible furrow is the intermammary cleft, the central bone is the sternum, and the vital internal space is the mediastinum. Understanding these distinctions is important for better health literacy, and it is a reminder that the human body is a marvel of complex, interconnected systems working in unison. Any persistent or concerning symptoms in this area should prompt a visit to a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and care.
For more detailed information on cardiovascular health, consider consulting reliable resources like the American Heart Association.
