Vanishing Twin Syndrome
Vanishing Twin Syndrome is a condition that occurs in certain twin pregnancies.
Vanishing Twin Syndrome Facts and Statistics
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Prevalence: Vanishing Twin Syndrome occurs in some twin or multiple pregnancies detected in the first trimester.
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Early Occurrence: The phenomenon typically happens within the first 12 weeks of gestation, often before the mother is aware she’s carrying multiples.
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Detection through Ultrasound: Advances in ultrasound technology have increased diagnosis rates. Early scans can now reveal multiple gestational sacs.
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Chromosomal Abnormalities: The vanishing twin often has chromosomal abnormalities, which lead to its cessation of development and absorption.
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Maternal Age Factor: Women over the age of 30 have a higher likelihood of experiencing Vanishing Twin Syndrome compared to younger women.
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Impact on Remaining Foetus: The surviving twin usually continues to develop normally, and the pregnancy proceeds without significant complications.
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Assisted Reproductive Technologies: The use of treatments like in vitro fertilisation (IVF) has led to an increase in multiple pregnancies and, consequently, instances of Vanishing Twin Syndrome.
Vanishing Twin and NIPT – challenges and recent developments
Performing Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) in pregnancies affected by Vanishing Twin Syndrome can be challenging due to the presence of residual DNA from the demised twin. NIPT analyses cell-free fetal DNA circulating in the mother’s bloodstream to screen for chromosomal abnormalities. In cases where one twin has ceased to develop, its genetic material may still linger in the maternal blood. This residual DNA can interfere with the test results, potentially leading to false positives or inconclusive findings, as the test may detect chromosomal anomalies from the non-viable twin rather than the healthy one.
Recent technological advances have begun to address these challenges. They improve the accuracy of NIPT testing. Enhanced bioinformatics algorithms and more sophisticated DNA sequencing techniques allow for better differentiation between the DNA of the surviving twin and that of the vanished one. These innovations reduce the likelihood of false-positive results, providing more accurate and reliable screenings for expectant mothers experiencing Vanishing Twin Syndrome.
At LPC, we offer 2 tests that can work with Vanishing Twins; PrenatalSafe NIPT and Prenatalsafe Complete Plus NIPT. You have to wait at least 5 weeks post the diagnosis of the vanishing twin on ultrasound to do the NIPT.
