Embryology Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Embryology, including details on stem cells, reproduction, transplants, cloning.

Trizygotic quintuplet pregnancy following simultaneous embryo splitting in an oocyte donatin cycle.

Robb PA, Williams DB, Robins JC, Thomas MA

Medical College of Wisconsin, 9200 W Wisconsin Ave., Dept. OB/Gyne, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA. probb@mcw.edu

PURPOSE: To report a trizygotic quintuplet pregnancy following simultaneous embryo splitting in an oocyte donation cycle after transfer of 3 embryos. METHODS: A 40-year-old Caucasian female G3P1 with two previous spontaneous abortions and diminished ovarian reserve presented for IVF. The patient underwent an oocyte donation cycle secondary to diminished ovarian reserve. Three embryos were transferred per patient request. RESULTS: The three embryo transfer resulted in a trizygotic quintuplet pregnancy. Selective embryo reduction was performed at 11 weeks leaving a dizygotic twin gestation. The patient underwent SVD, or spontaneous vaginal delivery at 36 weeks gestation with respective weights and apgars of 2673 g (apgars 7(1), 9(5)) and 2722 g (apgars 7(1), 9(5)). The twins are presently doing well without complications. CONCLUSIONS: Although rare, the possibility of simultaneous embryo splitting must be factored into determining number of embryos for fresh transfer.

Published 7 June 2006 in J Assist Reprod Genet, 23(4): 157-60.
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