| ORIGINAL ARTICLE |
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| Year : 2009 | Volume
: 8
| Issue : 2 | Page : 110-114 |
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Intrapair birthweight discordance in twins
Alphonsus N Onyiriuka
Department of Child Health, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, P.M.B 1111, Benin City, Nigeria
Correspondence Address:
Alphonsus N Onyiriuka
University of Benin Teaching Hospital, P.M.B 1111, Benin City
Nigeria
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
DOI: 10.4103/1596-3519.56239
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Background : Birthweight differences in twin pairs influence their perinatal outcome as well as growth and development. Growth-discordant twins have not been well characterized in our local environment.
Objective : To determine the frequency of birthweight discordance in live-born twin pairs and document some factors that may influence it.
Methods : In this cross-sectional study, 104 live-born twin pairs were recruited and their intrapair birthweight differences were determined. Twin pairs whose birthweight difference was 15% or more, using the larger infant as the growth standard, were designated as discordant. The maternal age, parity, and birth order of the heavier twin were noted.
Results : The prevalence of birthweight discordance was 28.8% when a 15% cut-off point was used but dropped to 9.6% when a 25% cut-off point was applied. Grand multiparity was associated with a significantly increased risk of delivery of discordant twins. Same-sex twin pairs accounted for 60% of all cases of birthweight discordance.
Conclusion : Birthweight discordance is common in twin gestations in Benin City, especially among grand multiparous women. |
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