Official Journal of the European Society of Gynecology
eISSN 2710-2580
Discovery of cephalopagus conjoined twins at an early term of 8+6 weeks: case report
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European Gynecology & Obstetrics
European Society of Gynecology
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Keywords

case report, cephalopagus, congenital malformation, Conjoined twins, early diagnosis, ultrasound

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How to Cite

Vandepoel, J., & Bernard, P. (2026). Discovery of cephalopagus conjoined twins at an early term of 8+6 weeks: case report. European Gynecology & Obstetrics, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.53260/EGO.268019

Abstract

Conjoined twins are a rare complication of monozygotic pregnancies resulting from incomplete separation of the embryonic disc after day 13. Early antenatal detection is essential for appropriate prenatal management and timely obstetric intervention. This case report describes the early detection of a conjoined twin pregnancy during a dating ultrasound. It presents the clinical findings and documented images of a rare presentation, particularly given the very early gestational age at diagnosis. The patient presented for a first dating ultrasound in her first pregnancy. The examination revealed an enlarged fetus with multiple anomalies highly suggestive of conjoined twinning. Once the diagnosis was established, a detailed discussion regarding the pregnancy prognosis was held with the couple. They subsequently opted for medical termination of the pregnancy. Anatomopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of conjoined cephalopagus twins. Karyotypic analysis revealed no chromosomal abnormalities. The application of a rigorous and systematic diagnostic approach, combined with careful attention to detail, enabled the early detection of this sporadic condition. Early diagnosis allows for timely clinical management and may reduce the risk of both obstetric and psychological complications.

https://doi.org/10.53260/EGO.268019
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Copyright (c) 2026 Jean Vandepoel, Pierre Bernard