Understanding Maternal Mirror Syndrome (MMS) – Causes, Symptoms, Management, and Treatment

Maternal Mirror Syndrome (MMS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that affects pregnant women. It occurs when a fetus has a severe medical condition that causes the mother’s body to mirror the symptoms. Symptoms include edema (swelling), hypertension (high blood pressure), and proteinuria (excess protein in the urine). MMS can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the fetus if left untreated and can be challenging to diagnose. Prompt medical attention is essential to protect the health of both the mother and the fetus. Treatment involves managing the symptoms and closely monitoring the health of both parties. Delivery may also be necessary in some cases if it poses no risk. Causes of MMS include fetal hydrops, placentomegaly, and maternal odema, which can be caused by rhesus isoimmunisation, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, structural anomalies, and fetal malignancies. Early diagnosis and repeated follow-ups are essential to prevent maternal mirror syndrome. Various type of cardiovascular supportive medicines and anti-hypertensives are given to the mother for foetus intrauterine blood transfusion and pleuroamniotic shunts are given by foetal medicine experts.