Multifetal Gestations Flashcards
Dizygotic (fraternal) twins
Two separate ova are fertilized by two separate sperm.
They are distinct pregnancies coexisting in the same uterus (each has its own amnion, chorion and placenta).
Monozygotic (identical) twins
A single fertilized ovum is cleaved at various stages during embryogenesis, therefore the arrangement of fetal membranes and placentas depends on which time the embryo divides.
How many chorions/amnions exist in monozygotic twins if cleavage occurs at 0-3 days?
How many twins have this placentation?
2 chorions and 2 amnions
30%
How many chorions/amnions exist in monozygotic twins if cleavage occurs at 4-8 days?
How many twins have this placentation?
1 chorion and 2 amnions
60%
How many chorions/amnions exist in monozygotic twins if cleavage occurs at 9-12 days?
How many twins have this placentation?
1 chorion and 1 amnion
1%
Which placentation is the most dangerous? Why?
What is at a high risk?
What is the net mortailty?
Monochorionic monoamniotic (9-12 days of cleavage) due to lack of separating amnions.
Cord entanglement
50-80% mortality
How many chorions/amnions exist in monozygotic twins if cleavage occurs at 13-15 days?
What is craniopagus vs. thoracopagus vs. ischiopagus? What are their incidences in this placentation category?
1 chorion and 1 amnion.
Craniopagus: joined at the cranium - 2%
Thoracopagus: joined at chest wall - 30-40%
Ischiopagus: joined at coccyx and sacrum - 6%
What percent of spontaneous twins are monozygotic twins vs. dizygotic twins?
Monozygotic: 1/3
Dizygotic: 2/3
What influences the development of dizygotic twins?
Maternal age: 2x more common in women >35 y/o
Family history and ethnicity (Asian
How is confirmation of multiple gestation made?
US
Which twin type is most likely to cause problems in pregnancy?
Monozygotic
What features suggest dizygosity on US? (3)
Different gender
Thick amnion-chorion septum
“Peak” or “inverted V” signat base of the septum
What feature suggests monozygosity on US?
The dividing membrane is fairly thin
If US is not definitive of zygosity, what should be done to determine it?
Placental inspection post delivery
DNA analysis
Interplacental vascular anastomoses occur in which twins? How commonly?
What is the most common type?
What complications can ensue?
90% of monochorionic twins
Arterial-arterial type
Aboriton, polyhydramnios, TTS, fetal malformations, etc.