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Antenatal detection of conjoined twin
U K Sharma1, A Dangol, C D Chawla
1Department of Radiodiagnosis, Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangar, Kathmandu, Nepal. dr-uksharma@yahoo.com
JNMA; Journal of the Nepal Medical Association
|February 16, 2008
Summary
Conjoined twins, a rare occurrence, are caused by incomplete embryonic disc division. Early detection via antenatal ultrasound is crucial for managing such pregnancies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Obstetrics
- Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Conjoined twinning is a rare developmental anomaly with an estimated incidence ranging from 1 in 50,000 to 1,000,000 births.
- The condition arises from the incomplete separation of the embryonic disc during early development.
- Antenatal ultrasound is a critical diagnostic tool for the early identification and management of conjoined twins.
Observation:
- A case of cephalothoracopagus conjoined twins was identified at 20 weeks gestation.
- The diagnosis was made in a primigravida woman during routine antenatal screening.
- Ultrasound imaging provided detailed visualization of the conjoined fetal anatomy.
Findings:
- The specific type of conjoined twinning observed was cephalothoracopagus.
- The diagnosis was confirmed via antenatal ultrasound.
- The pregnancy involved a primigravida (first-time pregnant) woman.
Implications:
- The early detection of conjoined twins enables timely and informed obstetric management.
- Pregnancy termination was elected due to the absence of a multidisciplinary team capable of surgical separation.
- This case highlights the importance of specialized surgical expertise for managing complex conjoined twin cases.
