Fetus in fetu or differentiated teratomas?

Indian J Pathol Microbiol. 2006 Oct;49(4):563-5.

Abstract

Two cases of congenital teratoma were operated upon. In view of the high degree of organoid differentiation of the teratomas with rudimentary limbs, intestine, brain-like and pulmonary tissues, it was difficult to distinguish it from fetus-in-fetu. In the light of the data obtained and extensive review of related literature, we consider that fetus-in-fetu and teratoma may not be unrelated entities. Our cases support the view held that fetuses in fetu are highly differentiated teratomas.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen / diagnostic imaging
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Fetus / abnormalities*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Radiography, Abdominal
  • Sacrococcygeal Region
  • Teratoma / pathology*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Ultrasonography