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Fetal transfusion syndrome

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment

Definition:

Fetal transfusion syndrome is a rare condition that occurs only in identical twins. It occurs while the babies are still in the womb and involves the transfer of blood from one twin to the other.

Alternative Names:

Twin-to-twin transfusion

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

In fetal transfusion syndrome, the donor twin is usually born smaller, anemic , and dehydrated while the recipient twin is born larger and polycythemic, with too much blood volume and increased blood pressure.

Both infants may have problems depending on the severity of the transfusion -- one from an inadequate blood volume, and the other from too much blood. The donor twin may need a blood transfusion, while the recipient twin may need blood volume reduction.

Because of the increased blood volume, the recipient twin may develop cardiac failure and also require medications to strengthen heart function.

• Review Date: 9/29/2006
• Reviewed By: Patrika M. Tsai, MD, MPH, Specialist in Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Foster City, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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