External fetus in fetu presenting in the second trimester: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Key Clinical Message Fetus in fetu (FIF) is a rare congenital anomaly that originates from various sites of the host twin's body. The clinical manifestations of FIF are diverse and the location and size of FIF indicate the degree of threat, which may directly affect the prognosis. A 33‐year‐old woman presented at the hospital with an abdominal mass in her fetus. Prenatal ultrasound observed that mass included soft tissue, bone‐like structures, and fluid. Immature cartilage, nerve tissue, muscle tissue, and glands in the parasitic fetus without signs of neoplastic lesions were reported by histological examination. CNV (copy number variation) and WES (whole exome sequencing) did not detect any abnormal mutations. FIF can continue to grow with gestational age or host infant growth. So complete resection is essential for improving the outcome of the host twin. It is also important that long‐term follow‐up is recommended to monitor any residual or recurrent cysts or malignancies.

Keywords

• fetal physiologic changes in pregnancy
• fetus in fetu
• general genetics
• second trimester anomalies