Double the Diagnosis: A Case Report of Dizygotic Twins With Meningomyelocele

The formation of neural tube defects, such as a meningomyelocele, is often sporadic and more common in monozygotic twin gestations but can be associated with folic acid deficiency and rarely occurs in dizygotic twins. In this case report, we present dizygotic twins born in the United States with meningomyeloceles. In addition, their neural tube defects were complicated by hydrocephalus and decreased muscle tone and movement in the lower extremities. Repair of the meningomyeloceles occurred 48 hours after birth with neurosurgical intervention, and placement of ventriculoperitoneal shunts was performed two weeks later once the neonates were of appropriate weight. This case report presents a rare occurrence of dizygotic twins with concurrent meningomyeloceles requiring post-natal surgical intervention to improve quality of life and decrease fatal complications of neural tube defects.