SIRENOMELIA, THE FETAL MERMAID - A RARE CASE REPORT

Abstract

Sirenomelia or mermaid syndrome is a rare congenital condition. Condition is characterised by fusion of lower limbs to form one single lower limb and is associated with bilateral renal agenesis, severe pulmonary hypoplasia, genitourinary abnormalities, anomalies of lumbosacral spine and pelvis, anorectal defect, gastrointestinal anomalies, single umbilical artery. It affects 1 in 100,000 live births worldwide, with the male to female gender ratio being 3:1. We report a case of sirenomelia type-III in a multigravida female reported to our hospital at term gestation. Her medical history was unremarkable, no associated risk factors, no history of drug abuse. No family history of congenital anomalies. Condition is fatal due to associated visceral anomalies. Prenatal diagnosis is difcult in late second and third trimester as severe oligohydramnios limits the visualisation of anomalies. Early diagnosis in rst or early second trimester is recommended when the normal amount of amniotic uid allow detailed sonographic scanning.