Case report
Dicephalus parapagus conjoined twins discordant for anencephaly: a case report
1 University of Calabar/University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
2 Obafemi Awolowo University/Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
Journal of Medical Case Reports 2010, 4:38 doi:10.1186/1752-1947-4-38
Published: 5 February 2010Abstract
Introduction
Cases of conjoined twins occur so rarely that it is important to learn as much as possible from each case.
Case presentation
We present a case of 9-hour-old, female, Nigerian dicephalus parapagus conjoined twins discordant for anencephaly diagnosed only after the birth of the twins. The anencephalic twin was stillborn while the normal one died within 9 hours of birth from cardiopulmonary failure.
Conclusion
Many congenital defects of interest can now be detected before birth. A severe lesion such as that found in our index case, which is incompatible with postnatal life, requires counselling. If detected early enough during a properly monitored antenatal care, it may indicate termination of pregnancy.
