Diagnostic dilemma in a neglected case of fetus-in-fetu solved with Magnetic Resonance Imaging and MDCT - a case report and review of literature

Abstract

Fetus-in-fetu (FIF) is a rare anomaly in which a vertebrate fetus is enclosed within the body of its twin in diamniotic monochorionic pregnancy. To the best of our knowledge, fewer than 100 cases have been reported in literature. Although a wide variety of presentations have been described in clinical reports, the characteristic features on MRI which distinguish FIF from teratoma have not been well delineated. Here we present a case of fetus-in-fetu in which characteristic MDCT and MR findings were used to diagnose FIF preoperatively and successfully differentiate it from teratoma. Although both CT and MRI can be used for definitive preoperative diagnosis of FIF, MRI is an ideal imaging modality due to inherent high tissue contrast and spatial resolution. Furthermore, MRI obviates the need for iodine contrast and eliminates the risk of ionizing radiation.  We emphasize that MRI is an ideal valuable diagnostic tool for definite preoperative diagnosis of FIF and surgical planning.