Fetus papyraceus

Fetal papyraceus is a condition where one of the fetus is compressed in-utero and eventually either gets completely resorbed or becomes paper thin, without major effect on mother or the other surviving fetus. It was rare condition, not encountered very often in the regular practice. Its incidence has increased over the past few years due to use of assisted reproductive techniques (ART). As ART has been the major cause of multiple pregnancies, in recent times, it has also increased the complications associated with it. ART has also made the rare complication a near common condition. Though the condition is managed conservatively, but may be associated with high morbidity and mortality of both mother and fetus. In this article we emphasize on the need for diagnosis of the condition to limit complications for both mother and fetus and plan the delivery accordingly. We present you the case of an elderly female with multiple pregnancy conceived by Artificial reproductive technique, with severe oligohydramnios and severe anemia with no prior evidence of twin pregnancy on routine investigations. She was evaluated and emergency caesarean of babies was done with Intraoperative surprise of total of 5 fetuses with 2 live births and 3 fetus papyraceus.