Neuroblastoma in monozygotic twins – a case of probable twin-to-twin metastasis
2001
Neuroblastoma in Monozygotic Twins
Sample size: 2
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Anderson J, Kempski H, Hill L, Rampling D, Gordon T, Michalski A
Primary Institution: Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London
Hypothesis
Is there a possibility of twin-to-twin metastasis in neuroblastoma cases?
Conclusion
The study suggests that one twin may have transmitted cancer cells to the other in utero through shared placental circulation.
Supporting Evidence
- Both tumors were morphologically, clinically, and molecularly indistinguishable.
- There was a 6-month delay between the presentations of the two twins.
- Twin 1 had constitutional karyotype abnormalities in at least 5% of cells.
- Twin 2 had a normal constitutional karyotype.
Takeaway
This study shows that one twin can give cancer to another twin before they are born.
Methodology
The study involved clinical and molecular analysis of tumors from two monozygotic twins.
Participant Demographics
Infant monozygotic twins.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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