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Jin H, Han Y, Zenker J. Cellular mechanisms of monozygotic twinning: clues from assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae022. [PMID: 38996087 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monozygotic (MZ) twins are believed to arise from the fission of a single fertilized embryo at different stages. Monochorionic MZ twins, who share one chorion, originate from the splitting of the inner cell mass (ICM) within a single blastocyst. In the classic model for dichorionic MZ twins, the embryo splits before compaction, developing into two blastocysts. However, there are a growing number of ART cases where a single blastocyst transfer results in dichorionic MZ twins, indicating that embryo splitting may occur even after blastocyst formation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE For monochorionic MZ twins, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the cellular mechanisms involved in ICM splitting, drawing from both ART cases and animal experiments. In addition, we critically re-examine the classic early splitting model for dichorionic MZ twins. We explore cellular mechanisms leading to two separated blastocysts in ART, potentially causing dichorionic MZ twins. SEARCH METHODS Relevant studies including research articles, reviews, and conference papers were searched in the PubMed database. Cases of MZ twins from IVF clinics were found by using combinations of terms including 'monozygotic twins' with 'IVF case report', 'ART', 'single embryo transfer', or 'dichorionic'. The papers retrieved were categorized based on the implicated mechanisms or as those with unexplained mechanisms. Animal experiments relating to MZ twins were found using 'mouse embryo monozygotic twins', 'mouse 8-shaped hatching', 'zebrafish janus mutant', and 'nine-banded armadillo embryo', along with literature collected through day-to-day reading. The search was limited to articles in English, with no restrictions on publication date or species. OUTCOMES For monochorionic MZ twins, ART cases and mouse experiments demonstrate evidence that a looser ICM in blastocysts has an increased chance of ICM separation. Physical forces facilitated by blastocoel formation or 8-shaped hatching are exerted on the ICM, resulting in monochorionic MZ twins. For dichorionic MZ twins, the classic model resembles artificial cloning of mouse embryos in vitro, requiring strictly controlled splitting forces, re-joining prevention, and proper aggregation, which allows the formation of two separate human blastocysts under physiological circumstances. In contrast, ART procedures involving the transfer of a single blastocysts after atypical hatching or vitrified-warmed cycles might lead to blastocyst separation. Differences in morphology, molecular mechanisms, and timing across various animal model systems for MZ twinning can impede this research field. As discussed in future directions, recent developments of innovative in vitro models of human embryos may offer promising avenues for providing fundamental novel insights into the cellular mechanisms of MZ twinning during human embryogenesis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Twin pregnancies pose high risks to both the fetuses and the mother. While single embryo transfer is commonly employed to prevent dizygotic twin pregnancies in ART, it cannot prevent the occurrence of MZ twins. Drawing from our understanding of the cellular mechanisms underlying monochorionic and dichorionic MZ twinning, along with insights into the genetic mechanisms, could enable improved prediction, prevention, and even intervention strategies during ART procedures. REGISTRAITON NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Jin
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Yang Han
- Division of Cellular and Developmental Biology, Molecular and Cell Biology Department, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Zenker
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Cara S, Bafaro MG, Cattoli M, Coticchio G, Di Paola R, Borini A. First case of dichorionic diamniotic triplet pregnancy after single blastocyst transfer. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:437-440. [PMID: 38079075 PMCID: PMC10894801 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02989-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple pregnancies are associated with significant maternal, fetal, and neonatal risks, including prematurity, low birth weight, pre-eclampsia, anemia, postpartum hemorrhage, intrauterine growth restriction, neonatal morbidity, and increased neonatal and infant mortality rates. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments should prioritize efforts to reduce such events, resisting patient demand for the transfer of multiple embryos at each transfer to increase success rates. Extended culture, embryo selection, and single blastocyst transfer can mitigate the risk of high-order multiple pregnancies. Intriguingly, elective single-embryo transfer (eSET) greatly reduces, but does not completely eliminate, the likelihood of multiple gestations. The occurrence of monozygotic twinning (MZT) gives rise to identical twins. It is more prevalent in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) compared with natural conception. In fact, the reported risks of monozygotic twinning in IVF and natural conception are 1.7 and 0.4%, respectively. The factors suspected to increase the risk of MZT in IVF are multiple embryo transfer, micromanipulation, and extended in vitro culture. Determining chorionicity and amnionicity is crucial in the assessment of multiple pregnancies during the first-trimester ultrasound examination. Dichorionic twins result from embryo splitting within 3 days after fertilization, while monochorionic twins occur when the splitting takes place between 4 and 8 days after fertilization. These timings are suggested by observations carried out in natural pregnancies. In ART, there is evidence of dichorionic twins derived from single embryo transfer (SET). Here, we report a case of dichorionic diamniotic triplets after a single blastocyst transfer occurred in our center. To our knowledge, this is the first case documented so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Cara
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, 9.baby, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Rossana Di Paola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Borini
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, 9.baby, Bologna, Italy
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3
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Li Y, Chang Q, Mai Q. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of monozygotic twins resulting from assisted reproductive technology: a 10-year retrospective study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:51. [PMID: 37268975 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01104-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monozygotic twins (MZTs) are associated with high risks of maternal and fetal complications. Even with the widely used elective single embryo transfer (SET), the risk of MZTs following assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments remains. However, most studies of MZTs focused on the relevant etiology, with few studies describing pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included 19,081 SET cycles resulting from in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) performed between January 2010 and July 2020 in a single university-based center. A total of 187 MZTs were included in this investigation. The main outcome measures were the incidence, pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of MZTs. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to figure out the risk factors for pregnancy loss. RESULTS The overall rate of MZTs from ART treatment in SET cycles was 0.98%. No significant difference was found in the incidence of MZTs among the four groups (p = 0.259). The live birth rate of MZTs in the ICSI group (88.5%) was significantly more favorable than in the IVF, PGT and TESA groups (60.5%, 77.2% and 80%, respectively). IVF resulted in a significantly increased risk of pregnancy loss (39.4%) and early miscarriage (29.5%) in MZT pregnancies compared to ICSI (11.4%, 8.5%), PGT (22.7%, 16.6%) and TESA (20%, 13.3%). The total rate of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) in MZTs was 2.7% (5/187); however, the TESA group had the highest rate at 20% and was significantly higher than the PGT group (p = 0.005). The four ART groups had no significant effect on the occurrence of congenital abnormalities or other neonatal outcomes in newborns from MZT pregnancies. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that infertility duration, cause of infertility, the total dose of Gn used, history of miscarriages, and the number of miscarriages were not related to the risk of pregnancy loss (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The rate of MZTs was similar among the four ART groups. The pregnancy loss and the early miscarriage rate of MZTs was increased in IVF patients. Neither the cause of infertility nor the history of miscarriage was correlated with the risk of pregnancy loss. MZTs in the TESA group had a higher risk of TTTS, placental effects influenced by sperm and paternally expressed genes may play a role. However, due to the small total number, studies with larger sample sizes are still needed to validate these result. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of MZTs after PGT treatment seem to be reassuring but the duration of the study was short, and long-term follow-up of the children is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubin Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiyuan Chang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingyun Mai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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4
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Nie Y, Qiao X, Li S, Pan Z, Zhang J, Xu L. Dichorionic quadruplet pregnancy comprising monozygotic triplets and singleton after intracytoplasmic sperm injection and transfer of two fresh embryos: a case report. J Int Med Res 2022; 50:3000605221075506. [PMID: 35118888 PMCID: PMC8819775 DOI: 10.1177/03000605221075506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Monozygotic triplet pregnancies are very rare in assisted reproductive
technology, and the relationship between monozygotic multiple pregnancies and
several assisted reproductive techniques, including blastocyst transfer, remains
unclear. Here, the case of a 28-year-old female patient with dichorionic
quadruplet pregnancy following intracytoplasmic sperm injection and transfer of
two day-3 fresh embryos, without assisted hatching, is reported. At 7 weeks
following embryo transfer, the dichorionic quadruplet pregnancy, comprising
monozygotic monochorionic triamniotic (MCTA) triplets plus a singleton, was
detected by a transabdominal ultrasound scan. After counselling, the patient
underwent selective reduction of the MCTA triplet pregnancy at 7 weeks after
embryo transfer. The remaining singleton pregnancy was uneventful, resulting in
a live birth at 38+ weeks. As the predictors of monozygotic multiple
gestations remain poorly characterized, clinicians and patients should give
great consideration to the risks associated with monozygotic multiple
pregnancies, even if the patient has not undergone blastocyst transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Nie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,The Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Sichuan University-The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoyong Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,The Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Sichuan University-The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Sicong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,The Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Sichuan University-The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhuo Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,The Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Sichuan University-The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,The Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Sichuan University-The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Liangzhi Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,The Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Sichuan University-The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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5
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High grade trophectoderm is associated with monozygotic twinning in frozen-thawed single blastocyst transfer. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 304:271-277. [PMID: 33533977 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05928-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to explore specific factors that predispose to monozygotic twinning (MZT) at the blastocyst stage. METHODS This was a retrospective observational study of a cohort of 2863 pregnancies after single blastocyst transfer (SBT) between January 2011 and June 2019 in our hospital. MZT pregnancy was identified as the number of fetuses exceeded the number of gestational sacs (GSs) by transvaginal ultrasound at 6-7 gestational weeks. The incidences of MZT regarding the maternal age at oocyte retrieval, paternal age, ovarian stimulation protocol, fertilization method, endometrium preparation protocol, vitrified day, and the Gardner grading of the blastocyst were calculated. The serum estrogen (E2), progesterone (P) levels, endometrium thickness and serum hCG levels on day 11 after embryo transfer (ET) were compared between the MZT and singleton pregnancies. Statistical analyses were used appropriately. RESULTS Fifty-one MZT pregnancies (1.78%) were identified. The only significant differences observed between MZT and singleton pregnancies were the proportion of TE grade (P = 0.022) and the hCG levels on day 11 after ET (P = 0.003). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that trophectoderm (TE) grade was an independent factor affecting MZT, the adjusted odds ratios (aORs) of grade A and B TE were 5.46 [95% confidential interval (CI) 1.48-20.16, P = 0.011) and 3.96 (95% CI 1.17-13.40, P = 0.027) compared to grade C respectively. There were no significant associations between the parental age, fertilization method, ovarian stimulation protocol, endometrium preparation protocol, vitrified day, expansion stage, inner cell mass (ICM) grade and MZT. CONCLUSIONS TE grade is associated with MZT at the blastocyst stage, potentially mediated via increased secretion of hCG from more well developed TE. Increased hCG secretion in turn may prolong the implantation window to support the embryo splitting.
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Dallagiovanna C, Vanni VS, Somigliana E, Busnelli A, Papaleo E, Villanacci R, Candiani M, Reschini M. Risk Factors for Monozygotic Twins in IVF-ICSI Cycles: a Case-Control Study. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:1421-1427. [PMID: 33258063 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00406-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is associated with a higher incidence of monozygotic twin pregnancies, which are known to be burdened by a higher risk of main obstetric complications. The reasons behind this association are still unclear. In the present study, we therefore investigate the risk factors for monozygotic twinning in pregnancies achieved by IVF. We conducted a multicenter retrospective case-control study. All IVF cycles performed between 2014 and 2019 at the infertility units of two Italian academic institutes were retrospectively reviewed. Only pregnancies obtained with single embryo transfer were eligible. A total of 50 monozygotic twin pregnancies (cases) were identified and matched in a 1:5 ratio to 250 singleton pregnancies (controls) by study center and study period. Monozygotic twin pregnancies were diagnosed by ultrasound. Women experiencing miscarriage could be included provided that the pregnancy loss occurred after a definitive diagnosis of monozygotic twin pregnancy. Demographic, clinical, and embryological characteristics were retrieved from patients' charts. Overall, the incidence of monozygotic twin pregnancies was 1.2% (50 out of 4016 single embryo transfers). At univariate analyses, statistically significant differences emerged for BMI, peripheral levels of estradiol and progesterone at the time of hCG administration, total number of retrieved suitable oocytes, freezing-thawing cycles, and assisted hatching. After performing a multivariate logistic analysis, only assisted hatching remained significantly associated with monozygotic twinning (adjusted odds ratio 2.32, 95%CI 1.03-5.25). Blastomere separation during the passage through this artificial hole or interference with the signaling pathway within the embryo could be the mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Dallagiovanna
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy. .,Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti, 6, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | - Valeria Stella Vanni
- Centro Scienze Natalità, Gynecol/Obstet Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti, 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Busnelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Milan, Pieve Emanuele, 20090, Italy.,Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Via Manzoni 56, Milan, Rozzano, 20089, Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Centro Scienze Natalità, Gynecol/Obstet Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Villanacci
- Centro Scienze Natalità, Gynecol/Obstet Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Reschini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti, 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
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Monochorionic Triplet Gestation after Single Blastocyst Transfer Using Donor Oocytes: Case Report and Review. Case Rep Obstet Gynecol 2020; 2020:4340617. [PMID: 32774958 PMCID: PMC7407061 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4340617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of a 43-year-old patient with a monochorionic triamniotic triplet pregnancy after IVF with donor oocytes. After failed IVF attempts, the patient chose to undergo treatment with donor oocytes. Her 22-year-old oocyte donor underwent standard controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. The retrieved oocytes were fertilized in vitro, and one embryo was transferred at the blastocyst stage. At 6 weeks and 5 days of gestation, an ultrasound revealed monochorionic triamniotic (MCTA) triplets. The risk of monozygotic twinning in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) is reported to be higher than that in natural conception, although the causes of the phenomenon have not yet been clarified. Efforts still must be made in order to prevent monozygotic multiple pregnancies, associated with much greater chances of obstetric and perinatal morbidity and mortality.
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Busnelli A, Dallagiovanna C, Reschini M, Paffoni A, Fedele L, Somigliana E. Risk factors for monozygotic twinning after in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:302-317. [PMID: 30691632 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2018] [Revised: 10/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To establish the risk factors for monozygotic twin (MZT) and monochorionic twin (MCT) pregnancies after in vitro fertilization (IVF). DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Women who achieved MZT and non-MZT pregnancies through IVF. INTERVENTION(S) Systematic search of Medline from January 1995 to October 2018 with cross-checking of references from relevant articles in English. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Possible risk factors for MZT or MCT pregnancies after IVF, comprising extended embryo culture, insemination method (conventional IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection [ICSI]), embryo biopsy for preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies or for monogenic/single-gene defects (PGT-A or PGT-M) programs, assisted hatching (AH), oocytes donation, female age, and embryo cryopreservation. RESULT(S) A total of 40 studies were included. Blastocyst transfer compared with cleavage-stage embryo transfer, and female age <35 years were associated with a statistically significant increase in the MZT and MCT pregnancy rate after IVF: (23 studies, OR 2.16, 95% CI, 1.74-2.68, I2=78%; 4 studies, OR 1.29; 95% CI, 1.03-1.62, I2=62%; and 3 studies, OR 1.90, 95% CI, 1.21-2.98, I2=59%; 2 studies, OR 2.34; 95% CI, 1.69-3.23, I2=0, respectively). Conventional IVF compared with ICSI and assisted hatching were associated with a statistically significantly increased risk of MZT pregnancy (9 studies, OR 1.19, 95% CI, 1.04-1.35, I2=0; 16 studies, OR 1.17, 95% CI, 1.09-1.27, I2=29%, respectively). Embryo biopsy for PGT-A or PGT-M, embryo cryopreservation, and oocytes donation were not associated with MZT pregnancies after IVF. CONCLUSION(S) Blastocyst transfer is associated with an increased risk of both MZT and MCT pregnancies after IVF. Further evidence is needed to clarify the impact of female age, insemination method and AH on the investigated outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Busnelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Chiara Dallagiovanna
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Dipartimento per la Salute della Donna, del Bambino e del Neonato, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Reschini
- Dipartimento per la Salute della Donna, del Bambino e del Neonato, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessio Paffoni
- ART Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Lariana, Como, Italy
| | - Luigi Fedele
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Dipartimento per la Salute della Donna, del Bambino e del Neonato, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Dipartimento per la Salute della Donna, del Bambino e del Neonato, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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9
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Sundaram V, Ribeiro S, Noel M. Multi-chorionic pregnancies following single embryo transfer at the blastocyst stage: a case series and review of the literature. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:2109-2117. [PMID: 30362060 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1329-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report cases of in vitro fertilization-frozen embryo transfer (IVF-FET) with single blastocyst transfer resulting in di- or tri-chorionic pregnancies, and to review the literature on monozygotic, multi-chorionic pregnancies originating at the blastocyst stage. DESIGN Retrospective case series and literature review. MATERIALS AND METHODS All in vitro fertilization cycles (fresh, frozen, autologous, and donor oocyte) performed between June 2012 and June 2017 at the University of California, San Francisco Center for Reproductive Health, were reviewed retrospectively. Cycles with cleavage-stage embryos or transfer of more than one blastocyst were excluded. Cycles were analyzed to determine if clinical pregnancy occurred with the presence of two or more gestational sacs noted on initial ultrasound. An in-depth chart review was performed with further exclusions applied that would lend credence to dizygosity rather than monozygosity such as fetal/neonatal sex discordance, fresh embryo transfer, and natural cycle FET (in which concomitant spontaneous pregnancy could have occurred). Demographic, clinical and IVF-FET cycle characteristics of the resulting patients were collected. Additionally, a review of the English language literature was performed (PUBMED, PMC) using the search words monozygotic twins, dichorionic diamniotic, in vitro fertilization, and single embryo transfer in order to identify cases of DC-DA monozygotic twinning from 1978 to 2017. Resulting articles were reviewed to eliminate all cases of dizygosity and day 3 embryo transfers. We obtained the following data from the literature search: basic patient demographics, type of fertilization, type and day of embryo transferred, number of embryos transferred, gestational ultrasound details, presence of any genetic testing if performed after delivery, and number of live births. RESULT(S) Two thousand four hundred thirty-four women underwent fresh or frozen single embryo transfer between June 2012 and June 2017 at the University of California, San Francisco Center for Reproductive Health. Of these, 11 women underwent a single blastocyst transfer with subsequent clinical pregnancies identified as multi-chorionic gestations. Four were in downregulated controlled FET cycles, in which concomitant spontaneous pregnancy could not have been possible. We then reviewed all cases of monozygotic dichorionic-diamniotic (DC-DA) splitting in IVF patients reported in the literature from 1978 to 2017. These eight cases demonstrate monozygotic splitting after the blastocyst stage, which challenges the existing dogma that only monochorionic twins can develop after day 3 post-fertilization. CONCLUSION(S) The accepted theory of monozygotic twinning resulting from the splitting of an embryo per a strict post-fertilization timing protocol must be re-examined with the advent of observed multi-chorionic pregnancies resulting from single blastocyst transfer in the context of IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viji Sundaram
- University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois St, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
| | - Salustiano Ribeiro
- University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois St, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Martha Noel
- University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois St, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
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10
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Gurunath S, Makam A, Vinekar S, Biliangady RH. Monochorionic triamniotic triplets following conventional in vitro fertilization and blastocyst transfer. J Hum Reprod Sci 2015; 8:54-7. [PMID: 25838751 PMCID: PMC4381385 DOI: 10.4103/0974-1208.153131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Revised: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple pregnancy in in vitro fertilization (IVF) is on the decline with a reduction in number of embryos transferred. But the risk of monozygotic splitting persists. The risk of monozygotic twinning in women undergoing IVF is reported to be twice that of natural conception, and monochorionic triplets are even rarer at 100 times more than natural conception. We report a case of monochorionic triamniotic (MCTA) triplets following conventional IVF and blastocyst transfer without zona manipulation. This report highlights the possibility of zygotic splitting in IVF in young couples with no family history, in centers with good experience with blastocyst transfer. MCTA triplets carry a high risk of perinatal mortality and morbidity and need multidisciplinary care. Prevention and prediction of zygotic splitting ought to be realized with better reporting and identification of possible risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumana Gurunath
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Cloudnine Hospitals, Malleshwaram, Karnataka, India
| | - Adinarayana Makam
- Department of Fetal Medicine, People Tree Hospitals, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Sriprada Vinekar
- Department of Gynaecology, Cloudnine Hospitals, Malleshwaram, Karnataka, India
| | - Reeta H Biliangady
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Cloudnine Hospitals, Malleshwaram, Karnataka, India
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Bedell JL, Stelling J. Completed monochorionic triplets after fresh-cycle single embryo transfer. CASE REPORTS IN PERINATAL MEDICINE 2015. [DOI: 10.1515/crpm-2014-0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Single embryo transfer (SET) is the standard of care for in vitro fertilization procedures and is aimed at decreasing the rates of multiple gestations. We highlight a case report of a patient with monochorionic-triamniotic triplet gestations despite SET and discuss the necessity of counseling patients adequately prior to using assisted reproductive technology.
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Takehara I, Takahashi T, Hara S, Matsuo K, Igarashi H, Kurachi H. Dizygotic twin pregnancy after single embryo transfer: a case report and review of the literature. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:443-6. [PMID: 24390628 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0170-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 12/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Isao Takehara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata, 990-9585, Japan
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Dessolle L, Fréour T. Blastocyst culture and MZT after SET. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:e41; author reply e42. [PMID: 21481378 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.03.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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