Sirenomelia-mermaid syndrome, its types and causes

Abstract

Sirenomelia, also known as mermaid syndrome, is a rare congenital abnormality characterized by the fusion of the lower limbs, giving the appearance of a mermaid's tail. This condition is extremely uncommon, with only a few hundred cases reported worldwide.Historically, sirenomelia was first described in the 16th century. It is classified into different types based on the degree of limb fusion and associated abnormalities. These include complete and partial sirenomelia, with the latter involving some level of limb separation.Signs and symptoms of sirenomelia include fused legs, malformed internal organs, and, in many cases, renal and gastrointestinal defects. The exact cause remains unclear, though it is believed to result from abnormal development during early embryonic stages.Risk factors include maternal diabetes, advanced maternal age, and certain genetic conditions. Diagnosis is typically made through prenatal imaging such as ultrasound.The outlook for individuals with sirenomelia is generally poor, as many affected fetuses do not survive to term. For those who do, the prognosis depends on the severity of associated organ malformations.