Abstract

RUIZ-BOTERO, Felipe; PACHAJOA, Harry; SALDARRIAGA, Wilmar  and  ISAZA, Carolina. A case report of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita in monochorionic biamniotic twins. Rev Colomb Obstet Ginecol [online]. 2009, vol.60, n.1, pp.79-82. ISSN 0034-7434.

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a group of rarely occurring musculoskeletal disorders, characterised by multiple joint contractures affecting the muscles of the upper and lower limbs and the back. This condition’s aetiology remains unknown and many causal agents have been implicated, particularly viral infections and intra-uterine restrictive conditions. Objective: contributing a case of AMC in a monochorionic biamniotic twin pregnancy to the literature and reviewing this congenital malformation’s aetiology and physiopathogeny. Case presentation: a second-born male twin, weighing 1345 gr, shortening of the four limbs in all segments was observed, accompanied by joint contractures leading to marked hand and foot deviation towards the mid line and the impossibility of active movement. Discussion: AMC being displayed in one of the identical twins mentioned in the present report suggests that this condition did not take place because of chromosomal alteration or a hereditary disease. Rather, it was presented because of one or several external factors (probably mechanical) affecting the foetus which may have jeopardised the normal development of the joints and led to AMC appearing. This is the fourth report of similar characteristics in the literature reviewed.

Keywords : arthrogryposis; diseases in twins; birth defect.

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