Fetus in Fetu: An Unusual Case Study for the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

Abstract

Fetus in fetu is an extremely unusual occurrence where a rare congenital tumor containing a vertebral axis, often containing parts of other organs or limbs, is identified. Normally identified in the newborn period, the size and location of the mass may result in significant multiorgan compromise. This article presents the challenges encountered by the neonatal intensive care unit team in providing care for a late preterm female infant presenting with gross abdominal distension. Description of the case includes preoperative management along with management of severe coagulopathy and hemorrhage that arose during the intraoperative and postsurgical course of care. A brief overview of abdominal masses in the newborn is presented. The importance in determining the final diagnosis of fetus in fetu and its differentiation from teratoma is discussed.