Early prenatal diagnosis of conjoined twins: Case series

Abstract

Introduction: Conjoined twins are complicated and unusual form of monozygotic twins. We present early prenatal diagnosis of three cases of conjoined twins by 2-dimensional (2D) ultrasound between 9-10 weeks of gestation. Case presentation: In the first case, we prenatally diagnosed parapagus dicephalus dibrachus dipus with 2- dimensional ultrasound at gestational age of 10 weeks 4 days. In the second case, we detected parapagus dicephalus at the 10 weeks 2 days gestation. In the third case, we diagnosed thoracopagus at the 9 weeks 6 days of gestation, using 2D ultrasound. After proper counselling, all of the patients opted early pregnancy termination due to the poor prognosis of conjoined twins. Conclusion: Early prenatal detection of conjoined twinning is important for the gestational course. Conjoined twinning could be identified in early first trimester with cautious and comprehensive view by experienced sonographers. Early and accurate prenatal diagnosis of conjoined twinning allows preferable counselling of the parents and gives a chance for early termination of pregnancy.