Fetal transfusion syndrome

Fetal transfusion syndrome is a rare condition that occurs only in identical twins. It involves the transference of blood from one fetus directly to the other in the womb.

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.

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