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Twinning and neurologic morbidity.
1Neuroepidemiology Branch, National Institute for Neurological Diseases and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md 20892.
American Journal of Diseases of Children (1960)
|September 1, 1992
Summary
The number of twins is rising, increasing their risk for neurologic conditions due to premature birth and low birth weight. Pediatricians should anticipate more congenital neurologic illnesses in twins.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pediatrics
- Neurology
Background:
- The global twinning rate is increasing.
- Twin survival rates have improved.
- Twins face higher risks for adverse neurologic outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize existing literature on neurologic morbidity in twins.
- To highlight the growing concern for neurologic complications in the twin population.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of medical literature.
- Analysis of data from the National Center for Health Statistics.
Main Results:
- Increased twinning rates correlate with increased twin survival.
- Premature birth and low birth weight in twins elevate neurologic morbidity risk.
- In utero brain abnormalities are more common in twins, potentially linked to placental vascular anastomoses.
Conclusions:
- Twins represent a vulnerable population for neurologic morbidity.
- Pediatricians must prepare for an anticipated rise in congenital neurologic conditions among twins.
- Understanding the unique risks for twins is crucial for early detection and intervention.