Asternia

/æˈstɜrniə/ noun

Definition

The condition of lacking a sternum or having a defective sternum; the anatomical state of being without a breastbone.

Etymology

From the prefix a- (without) plus sternum, plus the medical suffix -ia (condition). This medical term describes a congenital or anatomical absence of the sternum.

Kelly Says

Asternia is a rare congenital condition where someone is born without a sternum—it's one of those medical terms that sounds like it should appear in sci-fi but it's an actual real condition doctors study.

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