There is considerable anatomic variation in the shape of the xiphoid of the sternum:
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xiphoid ending is classified as single, double, or triple.
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xiphoid size varies (e.g. elongated process)
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xiphoid morphology (e.g. ventral or dorsal deviation, hook-like, reverse S-shape).
Clinical presentation
Elongated and ventrally-deviated xiphoid process might mimic an epigastric mass and cause pain