Sanju Bhagat, a man from Nagpur, India, became an extraordinary case in medical history due to a rare condition known as fetus in fetu. This phenomenon occurs when one twin is absorbed by the other during early pregnancy, leading to one twin developing inside the other like a parasitic entity. Bhagat’s story is not just a medical curiosity but also a reflection of societal perceptions and personal struggles.
The Condition Explained
Fetus in fetu is an extremely rare condition, estimated to occur in about 1 in 500,000 live births. It typically involves one malformed fetus being enclosed within the body of its twin. In Bhagat’s case, he lived for 36 years with his twin growing inside him, which led to a noticeable bulge in his abdomen that earned him the nickname “the pregnant man” among locals
Medical Discovery
Bhagat’s ordeal began when he experienced severe breathing difficulties due to the size of the mass in his abdomen. In June 1999, he was admitted to a hospital where doctors initially suspected a large tumor. However, during surgery, they made a shocking discovery: instead of a tumor, they found a partially formed human being inside him. Dr. Ajay Mehta, who performed the surgery, described the moment as surreal: “To my surprise and horror, I could shake hands with somebody inside”.
The surgical team encountered various body parts including limbs and hair as they removed what turned out to be Bhagat’s twin brother. This discovery was both horrifying and astonishing for the medical professionals involved.
Life After Surgery
After the surgery, Bhagat felt an immense relief as his breathing difficulties disappeared. However, his life had been marked by shame and ridicule due to his condition. For years, he endured teasing from peers who commented on his appearance. Despite the medical miracle that had occurred, Bhagat struggled with the social stigma attached to his unique situation.
The Science Behind Fetus in Fetu
Fetus in fetu occurs very early in twin pregnancies when one fetus envelops the other. The dominant fetus continues to grow while the enveloped fetus survives by leeching nutrients from its sibling through a structure that resembles an umbilical cord. Often, both twins do not survive due to complications arising from sharing a placenta; however, Bhagat’s case was exceptional as he survived alongside his parasitic twin for decades
Conclusion
Sanju Bhagat’s case remains one of the few documented instances of fetus in fetu globally, with fewer than 100 cases recorded in medical literature. His story highlights not only the complexities of human development but also the profound impact such conditions can have on personal identity and social interactions. Today, while Bhagat has returned to leading a normal life, he still faces occasional reminders of his past as “the pregnant man,” illustrating how medical anomalies can intertwine with societal perceptions in unexpected ways
