Calcified fetus

Calcified Fetus

A calcified fetus refers to a rare medical phenomenon where a fetus that has died during pregnancy becomes calcified within the mother's body. This condition is also known as a Lithopedion, which literally means 'stone baby'. It occurs when a fetus dies during an ectopic pregnancy, one that takes place outside the uterus, and the body is unable to expel it. Over time, to protect the mother from infection, the body calcifies the remains, effectively turning them into stone.

Causes and Incidence

The primary cause of a calcified fetus is an ectopic pregnancy that goes undiagnosed or untreated. Ectopic pregnancies occur in approximately 1-2% of all pregnancies. However, the transformation into a lithopedion is exceedingly rare, with fewer than 300 cases reported in medical literature.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a calcified fetus is often incidental, discovered during examinations for other conditions or during routine ultrasound scans. In some cases, it may be identified due to complications or symptoms caused by the presence of the calcified mass, such as abdominal pain or discomfort.

Treatment

Treatment for a calcified fetus often involves surgical removal, especially if the calcified mass causes discomfort or potential health risks to the mother. However, in cases where the lithopedion does not cause any symptoms, a decision may be made not to undergo surgery due to the risks involved in the procedure.

Historical Cases

Historical cases of lithopedion have been documented for centuries, with some dating back to the 16th century. These cases provide valuable insights into the history of obstetrics and the development of medical understanding of ectopic pregnancies and their outcomes.

See Also

• Ectopic Pregnancy
• Fetal Demise
• Obstetrics