When it comes to the topic of pregnancy, most people think of the joy of bringing a new life into the world. However, sometimes things don't go as planned, and rare medical conditions can occur. One such condition is "fetus in fetu," where a mass of tissue resembling a fetus grows inside the body of its twin. In some cases, the fetus in fetu is born alive, which raises questions about how to handle the situation.
What is Fetus in Fetu?
Fetus in fetu is a rare medical condition that occurs when a mass of tissue resembling a fetus grows inside the body of its twin. This condition happens during the early stages of fetal development when one twin envelops the other. The enveloped twin then becomes a mass of tissue inside the other twin's body.
The mass of tissue can contain bones, hair, teeth, and other body parts, which can make it look like a fetus. However, it's not a separate, fully-formed fetus, but rather a parasitic growth.
Can Fetus in Fetu Be Born Alive?
It's rare for fetus in fetu to be born alive, but it has happened before. In 1955, a baby boy was born in Indonesia with a fetus in fetu mass that contained a skull, four limbs, and other body parts. The mass was successfully removed, and the baby recovered fully.
In another case, a baby girl was born in 2008 in China with a fetus in fetu mass that contained a partially-formed body, including a head, arms, and legs. The baby underwent surgery to remove the mass, but unfortunately passed away due to complications.
What Happens When Fetus in Fetu Is Born Alive?
When fetus in fetu is born alive, it raises ethical and medical questions about how to handle the situation. The mass is not a separate, fully-formed fetus, but rather a parasitic growth, which means it's not viable on its own. However, it's still a mass of tissue that resembles a fetus, which can make the situation emotionally difficult.
Doctors must determine the best course of action based on the specific case. In most cases, the mass is surgically removed, as it can cause health problems for the living twin. However, if the mass is small and not causing any harm, doctors may choose to leave it in place.
Conclusion
Fetus in fetu born alive is a rare medical condition that raises ethical and medical questions. While it's not a separate, fully-formed fetus, but rather a parasitic growth, it can resemble a fetus, which can make the situation emotionally difficult. Doctors must determine the best course of action based on the specific case, but in most cases, the mass is surgically removed to prevent health problems for the living twin.