Fetus-in-fetu

Abstract

Introduction: Fetus-in-fetu (FIF) is a pathological condition in which the malformed foetus is found in the body of its twin. We report this rare case of a 3-monthold female baby whose diagnostic work-up suggested a mesenteric cyst but the mass at surgery was a FIF.
Discussion: Although current imaging modalities like computerized Tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have a higher Sensitivity for accurate delineation
of tissues, cheaper imaging alternatives like plain abdomen and ultrasonography still have a place in the preoperative work-up of FIF

Keywords: Fetus-in-fetu, intraabdominal mass, operative diagnosis, teratoma, ultrasonography

African Journal of Paediatric Surgery Vol. 5 (2) 2008: pp. 93-95