In 1999, a man from Nagpur, Maharashtra, was diagnosed with an uncommon illness known as "Foetus in Fetu." Sanju Bhagat, born in 1963, had gone through much of his life with a mystery and significantly pregnant appearance, unknowingly carrying his twin sibling inside him for an incredible 36 years.
Sanju Bhagat's story is one that baffled the medical community and captivated the attention of people around the world. For years, the 36-year-old man had been living with what appeared to be severe bloating, causing his stomach to protrude dramatically. This unusual condition made him stand out among the residents of his small community in Nagpur.
Little did Sanju Bhagat know that this bizarre phenomenon had a medical explanation. Upon seeking medical attention, doctors were astounded to discover a foetus growing inside his abdomen.
What Exactly Is Foetus In Fetu?
According to Case Reports in Radiology, foetus in fetu is an extremely rare condition that occurs in approximately 1 in every 500,000 live births, making it a true medical rarity. The term itself, derived from Latin, translates to "fetus within the foetus." It refers to a developmental anomaly where a malformed, parasitic twin is found within the body of its sibling.
In 1969, a similar case of foetus in fetu was reported by the Medical Journal of Australia. The parasitic twins were removed surgically.
As per research, we may be able to accurately diagnose the issue before surgery using current imaging techniques. Complete removal is curative and permits the diagnosis to be verified.
Also read: How To Raise Twins? Know Tips And Expectations From Expert
When Does Foetus In Fetu Occur?
Foetus in Fetu occurs when a malformed twin gets trapped and continues to grow inside the body of its sibling. In Sanju Bhagat's case, the undeveloped twin had formed a mass complete with bones, hair, and other tissues, resembling a growing foetus. The condition is believed to result from abnormal fertilisation during early embryonic development.
Dr Sushma Sule, the lead surgeon who operated on Sanju Bhagat, expressed her astonishment at the complexity of the case. "It was like carrying a full-term pregnancy within his own body," she stated. The surgical team successfully removed the mass, which weighed approximately 5 kilograms, and comprised various body parts such as limbs, a partial spinal column, and fragments of organs.
Also read: Rare Event: Teenager Gives Birth To Twins With Different Biological Fathers
Sanju Bhagat's condition has highlighted the significance of early detection and comprehension of unusual medical disorders. In his case, the lack of symptoms or discomfort caused him to delay seeking medical attention. Due to evident physical deformities or symptoms produced by the expanding mass, the foetus in fetu is frequently identified during childhood or infancy.
Importance Of Diagnosis
The case has sparked discussions among medical professionals about the need for increased awareness and regular check-ups, especially in instances where unusual symptoms persist. Early detection and intervention could potentially prevent complications associated with rare medical conditions.