Discordant twins: a case report

Multiple gestations account for 10 to 12 percent of perinatal deaths. Of all intrauterine deaths in twins, 73 percent are associated with monochorionic placentation. Monochorionic twins have higher rates of perinatal mortality, birthweight discordancy, and intrauterine growth retardation than do dichorionic twins. Follow-up studies indicate that twins remain at a disadvantage for subsequent growth and intellectual achievement. The history and hospital course of a set of discordant twins is presented, describing the extensive morbidity and prolonged hospitalization.