[Anencephaly in twin pregnancy: a series of 6 cases].

OBJECTIVE

To report a series of cases of anencephaly in twin pregnancies and assess the prognosis of the normal twin.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Retrospective study covering 4 years, at the CHU Campus in Lomé, assessing the sonographic aspects and management of cases of anencephaly in twin pregnancies.

RESULTS

Anencephaly was found in 6 twin pregnancies. The mothers' mean age was 31 years and all had a very low socioeconomic status. All had drunk a plant infusion of an unknown chemical composition in early pregnancy. Mean gestational age at diagnosis was 25 weeks. Ultrasound performed in all cases showed that 5 cases involved monochorionic diamniotic placentas, and 1 case a dichorionic placenta. Both fetuses were alive at diagnosis in all cases: one had anencephaly and the other twin was normal. The average estimated weight of the anencephalic twin at diagnosis was 659 grams, and of the normal twin, 749 grams; growth was thus discordant. Hydramnios was noted in all cases. Expectant monitoring was instituted; both twins died before 30 weeks in 4 cases.

CONCLUSION

Anencephaly in twin pregnancy is a rare occurrence. Ultrasound can be involved in the diagnosis and management.