SirenomeliaWhat are the other names for this disease? (also known as /synonyms) • Mermaid syndrome • Sirenomelia sequence • Midline disorder • SirenomelusWhat is it? (Definition/General Information) • Sirenomelia is a birth defect that causes the legs to fuse together. This malformation medical condition varies from person to person and occurs in 1 in 70,000 to 100,000 births. The fetus usually dies in the womb, during childbirth or just after birth. Who catches it? (Distribution by age and sex) • Developing fetus of both sexes What are the risk factors? (Predisposing factors) • A normal fetus has two arteries and one vein. However, the fetus with sirenomelia only has one umbilical artery and one vein, which will unfortunately contribute to inappropriate growth. What are the causes? (Aetiology)• Currently, there is no known cause. However, researchers, scientists as well as doctors believe that a vitelline umbilical artery is a possible factor that can contribute to sirenomelia. What are the signs and symptoms? • Fused legs or lack of foot structures • Abnormal kidney • Spinal abnormality • Missing genitals • Incomplete or underdeveloped reproductive systemHow is it diagnosed?• Usually before birth, around the second trimester, doctors can diagnose sirenomelia by ultrasound or ultrasonography• Immediately after birth, doctors can determine whether the baby has sirenomelia through physical observation. What are the possible complications “The severity of sirenomelia varies between individuals. Many babies die during birth, and those who survive may face long-term effects, including: • Kidney problems such as kidney failure or absence of one or both kidneys • Cardiovascular problems such as heart problem...... middle of paper... ..., born in 2004, currently lives in Peru. She was born with a normal heart and lungs. She has undergone numerous surgeries such as a kidney transplant, leg separation and organ reconstruction. When she was only 3 months old, doctors operated on her lower limb for the first time. With each operation, doctors hope to bring him a better and happier lifestyle. • Tiffany Yorks was born in 1988 with a heart defect and kidney problems. When she was about a month old, she had 2 surgeries for her leg separations. She underwent several surgeries to reconstruct her legs and feet. Surgeons are also planning operations to create his bladder and rectum. Tiffany is now married and can participate in many activities like swimming and dancing. However, she sometimes has to use a wheelchair or walker to get around. She is currently the longest survivor of Sirenomelia..