Parasitic twin
Parasitic Twin
A Parasitic Twin (pronunciation: /ˈpærəˌsɪtɪk/ /twɪn/) is a medical condition where one twin is not fully formed, and is wholly dependent on the body functions of the complete twin. The term originates from the Greek words "para" meaning beside, and "sitos" meaning food, indicating a being that exists beside and feeds off another.
Definition
A Parasitic Twin is a specific type of conjoined twin that is not fully formed, and is dependent on the other twin's body for survival. The parasitic twin may have an incomplete set of organs, and is unable to survive independently. This condition is a result of the incomplete splitting of the fertilized egg during the early stages of embryonic development.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a Parasitic Twin can vary greatly depending on the extent of the twin's development and the organs it shares with the complete twin. Common symptoms can include physical deformities, organ dysfunction, and complications related to shared blood supply.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of a Parasitic Twin is typically made through ultrasound during pregnancy. Further diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scan may be used to determine the extent of the twin's development and the organs it shares with the complete twin.
Treatment
Treatment for a Parasitic Twin typically involves surgical separation. The complexity of the surgery depends on the organs shared between the twins. Post-surgery, the complete twin may require additional treatments or surgeries to repair or replace shared organs.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Parasitic twin
- Wikipedia's article - Parasitic twin
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