A case of intraplacental twin transfusion

Abstract

There have been several reports of polycythaemia in one of uniovular twins with anaemia in the other twin. This syndrome has been recently fully recorded and reviewed by Corney and Aherne (1965). We describe here a severe example of this condition, with jaundice in the polycythaemic twin necessitating exchange transfusion. The severe anaemia in the other twin caused death in utero, and the birth of a macerated foetus. The twins showing intraplacental transfusion are described. Successful treatment of the polycythaemia and hyperbilirubinaemia is described. Bilirubin estimation should be performed routinely in such cases because polycythaemia may mask severe jaundice. Furthermore, previous reports of the condition and its management are briefly discussed.peer-reviewe