What is the effect of Zika in twins? Could they have the same Zika virus infection, but develop varying results? The experts are currently in agreement that it's possible for one twin to develop normally, while another twin will have birth defects.
However, the experts are also still learning new information about virus, especially its effect on pregnancies and babies. The list of birth defects due to Zika virus infection is apparently growing longer.
Zika In Twins Currently Being Studied In Brazil
One commonly associated Zika birth defect is medically termed as microcephaly, which is marked by stunted brain development that results in its abnormal size and growth. Jaqueline Jessica Silva de Oliveira, a mom from Brazil, can attest that Zika in twins can affect differently. When she gave birth to her babies, the boy, Lucas, was normal, but the girl, Laura, had microcephaly. The babies are in the forefront of a Zika study involving twins to help shed light on the virus' behavior and effects, per Reuters.
New York Magazine reports that the experts are also studying different set of twin babies -- both fraternal and identical -- in Sao Paolo. They are looking into three hypotheses as to why one twin could be protected from the virus compared to the other twin. It's possible this involves neurons that enable one twin to develop resistance to the Zika virus, or a genetic predisposition.
It could also be that the placenta that protects the twins has a better one than the other. Fraternal twins have separate placentas, while identical twins usually have only one to share. However, there are also cases where identical twins have different placentas.
Researchers Slowly Homing In On Risk Of Zika Birth Defect: Five-month-old twins, Laura (L) and Lucas ... https://t.co/Aw7mDIMwo7 #health
— Health Questions (@health_faq) May 26, 2016
Zika In Twins: New Birth Defects Discovered
Meanwhile, the Scientific American reports that abnormal brain development is not the only birth defect that results in Zika virus infection. More babies have been discovered to have seizures, impaired vision, weak joints, feeding and crying problems.
The discovery implies that even when babies are not diagnosed with microcephaly, they could develop other conditions as a result of Zika infection. Worse, these birth defects might only manifest months after the birth.
It remains to be seen how these other birth defects could impact twin babies. The experts hope to find conclusive results of their research within the year.
