‘Foetus in Fetu’ Case Stuns Doctors in Maharashtra: What You Need to Know About This Rare Condition
'Foetus in Fetu' Case Stuns Doctors in Maharashtra: What You Need to Know About This Rare Condition
In a rare medical case, doctors at the district hospital in Buldhana, Maharashtra, discovered a foetus growing inside an unborn baby during a routine check-up of a 35-year-old pregnant woman. This condition, known as foetus in fetu, is extremely rare, occurring in about 1 in 500,000 live births.
The woman, who is eight months pregnant, underwent a sonography test, which shocked the medical staff. They found another foetus inside the unborn baby in her womb. The case created a stir at the hospital, and a report was immediately sent to the state health ministry in Mumbai. The woman was later referred to a medical center in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar for safe delivery and further treatment.
Dr Prasad Agarwal, an obstetrician and gynaecologist at the hospital, stated that only about 200 cases of foetus in fetu have been reported worldwide, with 10-15 cases in India. Usually, these cases are detected only after birth.
There are two main theories behind this condition. The parasitic twin theory suggests that the foetus in fetu is a malformed twin dependent on the host twin for survival. The teratoma theory suggests that it is a highly differentiated tumour that contains tissues and organs.
The only treatment for foetus in fetu is surgery to remove the mass. Surgery is usually successful, and most children recover fully without long-term complications. However, there is a small risk of recurrence.
Doctors are closely monitoring the case to ensure a safe delivery and further medical care for the mother and baby.
