Twin anemia-polycythemia sequence: the importance of an accurate diagnosis

Abstract: Twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS), which was first described in 2007, is an atypical chronic form of twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). It presents as a large intertwin hemoglobin difference, with one twin developing anemia and the other polycythemia, without the traditional “polyhydramnios-oligohydramnios sequence” that is usually seen in TTTS. So far, ideal management of TAPS is not clear. We report here the case of a monochorionic biamniotic gestation, complicated by TAPS, detected at 30 weeks’ gestation that led to an emergent cesarean section. The recipient twin had an uneventful evolution. The donor twin was severely anemic, with a hemoglobin level of 2.5 g/dL that required immediate blood transfusion and intensive care management measures. Clinical evolution was favorable with good outcome in both twins. This case report intends to emphasize the association between hydrops fetalis and severe anemia, as well as the relevance of antenatal Doppler ultrasound investigations and the importance of an accurate management decision.

Object Details

• Location: Deutsche Nationalbibliothek Frankfurt am Main
• Extent: Online-Ressource
• Language: Englisch

References and Relationships

• Bibliographic citation: Twin anemia-polycythemia sequence: the importance of an accurate diagnosis ; volume:3 ; number:2 ; year:2014 ; pages:143-146 ; extent:4 ; Case reports in perinatal medicine ; 3, Heft 2 (2014), 143-146 (gesamt 4)

Contributors, Places and Time

• Creator: Sobreira, Inês ; Sousa, Cátia ; Paiva, Catarina ; Freitas, Serafina ; Proença, Elisa ; Carvalho, Carmen

Further information

• DOI: 10.1515/crpm-2013-0051
• URN: urn:nbn:de:101:1-2411121508025.898308534648
• Rights: Open Access; Der Zugriff auf das Objekt ist unbeschränkt möglich.
• Last update: 15.08.2025, 2:37 PM CEST