Pregnant Maharashtra Woman Diagnosed With ‘Foetus In Fetu’: What Experts Say About This Rare Condition

An obstetrician and gynaecologist at the hospital, described ‘foetus in fetu’ as an exceptionally uncommon occurrence, affecting approximately one in every five lakh cases. Given the rarity of this condition, we consulted Dr Mannan Gupta, Chairperson & HOD of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Elantis Healthcare, New Delhi, to gain deeper insights into its implications.

What Is The ‘Foetus in Fetu’ Condition, And How Does It Occur?

Foetus in fetu (FIF) is an extremely rare condition in which a malformed foetus forms inside another foetus. According to the National Library of Medicine, it is typically identified in infancy as an abdominal mass. FIF is considered a parasitic twin, originating from a diamniotic, monozygotic twin pregnancy.

Dr Mannan Gupta explains that this condition arises due to an abnormality in monozygotic twin pregnancies, where one twin is enveloped by the other during the early stages of embryonic development. Instead of growing independently, the absorbed twin remains trapped within the host’s body, usually in the retroperitoneal space (behind the abdominal organs). Unlike a teratoma, FIF contains identifiable foetal structures such as vertebrae, limbs, or even partially formed organs, making it distinct from other abnormal growths.

Health Risks For The Child Carrying The ‘Foetus in Fetu’?

Dr Gupta explained that the presence of a parasitic twin within the host child's body can lead to various complications, depending on its size and location. The potential health risks include:

• Abdominal Swelling & Pain: The mass may put pressure on internal organs, causing discomfort and distension.

• Digestive and Urinary Problems: If the FIF presses against the intestines, kidneys, or bladder, it can lead to bowel obstruction or difficulty in urination.

• Infections & Inflammation: Since the non-viable tissue is foreign to the body, it may trigger an immune response, increasing the risk of infections.

• Rare Risk of Malignancy: Although uncommon, FIF has the potential to undergo cancerous changes if left untreated.

Treatment Options For Children Born With ‘Foetus in Fetu’ Condition

The standard treatment for FIF involves surgical removal of the parasitic twin. Once the condition is diagnosed, paediatric surgeons perform a careful extraction, ensuring that no vital organs are affected during the procedure. Surgery is generally successful, and most children recover without long-term complications.

Dr Gupta said, “After the operation, regular follow-ups are essential to monitor for any remaining tissue or potential complications. In extremely rare cases where complete removal isn't possible, additional medical interventions may be required to manage the condition effectively.”

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Can FIF Be Detected In Early Stages?

Detecting Foetus in Fetu (FIF) during prenatal scans is rare but possible. According to Dr Gupta, advanced ultrasound imaging and foetal MRI can sometimes identify an unusual mass inside the developing foetus, which may initially be confused with a teratoma or cyst. However, because of its rarity and similarity to other conditions, FIF often goes undiagnosed during pregnancy.

Dr Gupta said, “It is typically only detected after birth when symptoms like an abdominal lump or distension prompt further investigation through CT scans or MRI. In some instances, the condition might not be discovered until later in childhood or adolescence.”

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Although FIF is a fascinating and rare medical condition, early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention usually result in positive outcomes for the affected children.

Fortunately, in this case, FIF was diagnosed before the woman’s delivery. The woman has been referred to a medical facility in the neighbouring Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar for a safe delivery and to undergo further procedures, as confirmed by the hospital authorities.

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Credits: Freepik