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Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome - Symptom

Alternative Names

TTTS; Fetal transfusion syndrome

Symptoms:

The donor twin is usually born smaller than the other twin, usually with paleness, anemia, and dehydration.

The recipient twin is born larger, with redness, too much blood, and increased blood pressure. Because of the increased blood volume, the recipient twin may develop cardiac failure and also require medications to strengthen heart function.

The unequal size of identical twins is referred to as discordant twins.

Signs and tests:

This condition is usually diagnosed by ultrasound during pregnancy.

After birth, the infants will receive the following tests:

Blood clotting studies, including prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time (PTT)
Comprehensive metabolic panel to determine electrolyte balance
Complete blood count
Chest x-ray

Reviewed last on: 11/1/2009
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Evans MI, Yaron Y, Deprest J, et al. Fetal therapy. In: Gabbe SG, Niebyl JR, Simpson JL, eds. Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2007:chap 10.

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