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| The Vanishing Twin Syndrome. |
Most at times, we get question like;
Hi Doctor!
Please, what could be responsible for pregnancy that has been reading twins from ultrasound results to turn single during delivery?
ANSWER
This is a Case of VANISHING TWIN SYNDROME. Read more below.👇🏾
Twin Syndrome
Overview
This is a rare but probable phenomenon.
A vanishing twin, which is also known as fetal resorption, is a fetus (growing baby) in a multiple gestation pregnancy, mostly in twin pregnancy, which dies in utero (inside the womb) and is then partially or completely reabsorbed by the twin. This mostly occurs when a twin or multiple disappears all of a sudden in the uterus (womb) of a woman during pregnancy as a result of a miscarriage of one twin or multiple as the case may be. In this case, the fetal tissue is absorbed by the other twin, multiple, placenta or the mother. This Vanishing Twin Syndrome was first recognized in 1945.
How is Vanishing Twin Syndrome diagnosed?
Before the discovery of ultrasound, the diagnosis of the death of a twin or multiple was made through an examination of the placenta after delivery. However, as we may have it, with the inception of new medical technology, we have ultra-modern way of diagnosing it. Today, with the availability of early ultrasounds, the presence of twins or multiple fetuses can be detected during the first trimester. Morealso, a follow-up ultrasound may reveal the “disappearance” of a twin in the womb.
Normal Clinical Presentation of Vanishing Twin Syndrome.
The typical clinical setting is a woman who presented to the doctor for an ultrasound at 6 or 7 weeks’ gestation. During this appointment the medical doctor identifies two fetuses, and the woman is told she is having twins. She leaves very happy and ecstatic, but behold, when the woman returns for her next visit, only one heartbeat can be heard. A follow up second ultrasound is conducted, and only one fetus is observed. Heart breaking! Additionally, some women today may have signs and symptoms that would indicate a miscarriage, although an ultrasound scan will reveals a single baby in the uterus.
What is the cause of Vanishing Twin Syndrome?
1. In most cases, the cause of vanishing twin syndrome unknown.
2. Abnormalities that result in the vanishing twin appear to be present from early in development rather than from a sudden occurrence.
3. Analysis of the placenta and/or fetal tissue of the baby in the womb frequently reveals chromosomal abnormalities in the vanishing twin, while the surviving twin is usually healthy.
4. Improper cord implantation in the womb may also be a cause of vanishing twin syndrome.
2. Abnormalities that result in the vanishing twin appear to be present from early in development rather than from a sudden occurrence.
3. Analysis of the placenta and/or fetal tissue of the baby in the womb frequently reveals chromosomal abnormalities in the vanishing twin, while the surviving twin is usually healthy.
4. Improper cord implantation in the womb may also be a cause of vanishing twin syndrome.
What are the effects of Vanishing Twin Syndrome on the mother and surviving twin?
If the loss occurs within the first trimester, neither the remaining fetus nor the mother generally have clinical signs or symptoms. The outcome of the surviving twin is usually excellent, but this depends on the factors that contributed to the death of the other twin.
If the twin dies in the second or third trimester, there are increased risks to the surviving fetus, including a higher rate of cerebral palsy.
When a twin dies after the embryonic period of gestation, the water within the twin’s tissues, the amniotic fluid, and the placental tissue may be reabsorbed. This results in the flattening of the deceased twin from the pressure of the surviving twin.
If the twin dies in the second or third trimester, there are increased risks to the surviving fetus, including a higher rate of cerebral palsy.
When a twin dies after the embryonic period of gestation, the water within the twin’s tissues, the amniotic fluid, and the placental tissue may be reabsorbed. This results in the flattening of the deceased twin from the pressure of the surviving twin.
What are the signs of a possible Vanishing Twin Syndrome?
1. Research indicates more cases of Vanishing Twin Syndrome in women over the age of 30.
2. Symptoms usually begin early in the first trimester and include bleeding, uterine cramps, and pelvic pain in pregnant women.
What medical care is recommended for Vanishing Twin Syndrome?
1. No special medical care is necessary with an uncomplicated vanishing twin in the first trimester. Neither the surviving twin nor the mother would require medical treatment.
2. If the fetal death is in the second or third trimester, the pregnancy may be treated as high-risk. Pregnant women should seek medical care if they are experiencing bleeding, cramping, and pelvic pain.
3. Ultrasound should be used to determine that no viable fetus remains before deciding if a D&C might be indicated.
2. Symptoms usually begin early in the first trimester and include bleeding, uterine cramps, and pelvic pain in pregnant women.
What medical care is recommended for Vanishing Twin Syndrome?
1. No special medical care is necessary with an uncomplicated vanishing twin in the first trimester. Neither the surviving twin nor the mother would require medical treatment.
2. If the fetal death is in the second or third trimester, the pregnancy may be treated as high-risk. Pregnant women should seek medical care if they are experiencing bleeding, cramping, and pelvic pain.
3. Ultrasound should be used to determine that no viable fetus remains before deciding if a D&C might be indicated.
Dr. Chudi Ufondu.
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