The space between the breasts is a common area of the body, often referred to by the colloquial term “cleavage.” This region, which is a depression on the chest, has a formal medical designation that describes the exact physical boundary separating the two mammary glands. Knowing the correct terminology provides an accurate way to discuss the anatomy and related health concerns.
Anatomical Terminology
The area between the breasts is formally known in human anatomy as the Intermammary Cleft. This term is descriptive, with “intermammary” meaning “between the breasts” and “cleft” referring to a natural division or fissure. The International Federation of Associations of Anatomists (IFAA) also uses the Latin term Sulcus Intermammarius to identify this structure. The Latin word sulcus translates directly to “furrow” or “groove,” which accurately describes the appearance of the depression.
In medical settings, particularly during surgical or radiological discussions, this precise terminology is used to ensure clarity. For instance, a surgeon might refer to the “medial definition” or “medial fold” of the breast when discussing tissue boundaries during a procedure. The width and definition of the Intermammary Cleft are determined by the attachment points of the breast tissue to the underlying structures.
Defining the Boundaries
The Intermammary Cleft is defined by the presence of the Sternum, or breastbone, which serves as the central bony landmark beneath the skin. This bony structure prevents the mammary tissues from fusing, creating the distinct midline division. The cleft is located superficially to the Pectoralis Major muscles, which are the large chest muscles that lie underneath the breast tissue.
The depth and shape of this groove are influenced by the size, shape, and projection of the mammary glands. A dense network of connective tissue, known as Cooper’s ligaments, inserts medially into the skin overlying the sternum, helping to determine the overall contour. The skin at the midline is tightly bound by a deep layer of superficial fascia that attaches to the periosteum of the sternum, creating a firm boundary.
Clinical and Dermatological Relevance
The unique environment of the Intermammary Cleft makes it susceptible to certain health issues due to its location as an intertriginous area, meaning it is a skin fold. Conditions often arise from the accumulation of heat, moisture, and friction within the fold.
Common Dermatological Conditions
The cleft can be affected by several dermatological issues:
- Fungal infections like tinea versicolor and inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis can occur in this area.
- Poikiloderma of Civatte presents as a red-brown discoloration and dilated blood vessels in the upper part of the cleft, often linked to long-term sun exposure.
- Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by abscesses.
- Intermammary Pilonidal Sinus Disease can occur when shed hair becomes trapped in the groove, leading to chronic inflammation.
In surgical practice, the Intermammary Cleft is a reference point for procedures, and its integrity is a measure of surgical success. Symmastia is an uncommon condition, often occurring after breast augmentation, where the breast tissues merge across the midline, eliminating the intermammary cleft. Proper definition of the cleft is a significant goal in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.