Extremely Rare Fetus in Fetu Case: Karnataka Newborn Discovered With Twin Growing Inside Abdomen

FIF is a non-viable condition where an undeveloped twin cannot survive independently (Representational)

A remarkable medical case has emerged from Karnataka where doctors discovered a newborn male baby with another developing fetus inside his abdomen, a condition medically termed as Fetus in Fetu (FIF). This exceedingly rare phenomenon occurs in approximately 1 in 500,000 live births worldwide.

The birth took place on September 23 at the Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMC) in Hubballi, where a woman delivered a full-term baby. Post-delivery diagnostic imaging revealed rudimentary anatomical structures including spine and skull bones of a parasitic twin developing within the newborn's abdominal cavity.

Medical specialists explain that FIF represents a developmental anomaly where the parasitic twin is incapable of independent development. This condition may result from one twin enveloping another during early embryonic formation, or alternatively, may represent a highly differentiated teratoma—a rare germ cell tumor containing various tissue types such as teeth, hair, bone, and muscle tissue.

Both mother and child were reported to be in stable condition following the delivery. The medical team at KIMC has indicated that comprehensive examinations will continue, with surgical intervention planned pending parental consent. Physicians emphasize the importance of early treatment to prevent potential complications and safeguard the infant's future health.

KIMC Director Dr. Ishwar Hosamani and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ishwar Hasabi confirmed the exceptional nature of this case, noting it has generated considerable interest throughout the medical community.

Fetus in fetu represents an unusual congenital condition characterized by the incorporation of an undeveloped twin within the body of its sibling. Typically manifesting as an abdominal mass in infants, the parasitic twin generally exhibits malformations due to compression from surrounding host organs. With fewer than 200 documented cases globally, this condition remains one of medicine's rarest anomalies.

A similar case was reported earlier this year in February, when a 32-year-old woman from Maharashtra's Buldhana district gave birth to a baby boy diagnosed with fetus in fetu. The infant was subsequently transferred to a specialized government hospital in Amravati, where medical imaging revealed two fetuses with partially developed limbs within the baby's abdomen.