Thoracopagus: Autoptic and radiologic study of 2 cases

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Genetics
• Perinatology

Background:

• Conjoined twinning is a rare complication of monozygotic twins.
• Thoracopagus twins, joined at the chest, are the most common form.
• Accurate prenatal diagnosis is crucial for management and counseling.

Observation:

• Two cases of male thoracopagus twins are presented.
• One case involved autopsy findings, the other prenatal MRI.
• Misdiagnosis occurred with antenatal ultrasound (USG) in one case.

Findings:

• Prenatal MRI accurately detected thoracopagus twins in one case.
• Bilateral peripheral cortical cysts with dysplasia were noted in one twin, a novel finding in conjoined twins.
• Antenatal USG misdiagnosed conjoined twins as separate in one instance.

Implications:

• Prenatal MRI is vital for precise diagnosis of conjoined twins.
• Early and accurate diagnosis facilitates informed parental counseling on surgical options or pregnancy termination.
• The identification of novel associated anomalies like cortical cysts highlights the need for detailed prenatal evaluation.