What is pyropagus?

Pyropagus is an extremely rare parasitic twinning in which one parasitic fetus fuses to a normal fetus. Pyropagus is a type of asymmetric conjoined twins, and as such, one twin (the "autosite" or "host twin") is much smaller than the other (the "parasite twin"). The parasite twin is partially or completely dependent on the autosite for survival.

Pyropagus twins are typically delivered preterm, and the prognosis is generally poor. The autosite twin may have various deformities, and the parasite twin may be completely undeveloped or may have only a few rudimentary organs.

The cause of pyropagus is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a disruption of the embryonic development process. Pyropagus is a very rare condition, with only about 100 cases reported in the medical literature.

Symptoms of pyropagus

The symptoms of pyropagus can vary depending on the severity of the condition. The autosite twin may experience the following symptoms:

* Difficulty breathing

* Difficulty eating

* Failure to thrive

* Various deformities, such as:

* Cleft lip and palate

* Spina bifida

* Heart defects

* Kidney defects

The parasite twin may experience the following symptoms:

* Complete dependence on the autosite for survival

* Rudimentary organs

* Lack of development

Diagnosis of pyropagus

Pyropagus is typically diagnosed during pregnancy. Ultrasounds can detect the presence of a parasitic twin, and further testing can determine the severity of the condition.

Treatment of pyropagus

There is no cure for pyropagus, but treatment may be available to improve the quality of life for the affected twins. Treatment may include:

* Surgery to separate the twins

* Supportive care for the autosite twin

* Palliative care for the parasite twin

Prognosis for pyropagus

The prognosis for pyropagus is generally poor. The survival rate for the autosite twin is about 50%, and the survival rate for the parasite twin is very low.

Pyropagus is a very rare and complex condition. If you are pregnant and you are diagnosed with pyropagus, it is important to seek the advice of a medical professional.