Twin anemia-polycythemia sequence with suspected cardiac dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Perinatology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Neonatology

Background:

• Twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS) is a rare vascular complication of monochorionic twins.
• It arises from feto-maternal hemorrhage or placental vascular anastomoses.
• Postnatal diagnosis is less common than prenatal detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of TAPS diagnosed postnatally.
• To highlight the potential for chronic cardiac stress in the donor twin.
• To emphasize the importance of considering TAPS in neonates with unexplained findings.

Main Methods:

• Case report presentation.
• Review of clinical data and diagnostic findings.
• Discussion of potential etiologies and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Postnatal diagnosis of TAPS was confirmed.
• The donor twin exhibited signs suggestive of chronic cardiac stress.
• Echocardiographic findings were consistent with cardiac strain.

Conclusions:

• TAPS can be diagnosed postnatally, presenting diagnostic challenges.
• Chronic cardiac stress may be a sequela in donor twins with TAPS.
• Early recognition and management are crucial for improved neonatal outcomes.