Lithopedion or Stone Baby

A "stone baby," also known as a lithopedion, is a rare medical phenomenon where a deceased fetus, usually from an ectopic pregnancy, becomes calcified and remains within the mother's abdomen, essentially turning to stone due to a process called lithification. This condition often goes undetected for years, with few symptoms, and is only diagnosed through imaging techniques like CT scans, highlighting the importance of thorough medical evaluation in cases of unusual abdominal masses. Due to its rarity and often asymptomatic nature, a stone baby can be a diagnostic challenge for healthcare providers. Early detection is crucial to manage potential complications arising from a retained calcified fetus. Thorough medical history and physical examination are important in identifying potential cases of lithopedion.