Today's post is another compilation, this time focusing on the phenomenon of parasitic twins (more on that below). Because this is so rare, there is not much research even today focusing on it. In history, there are a few cases that are well-known: Lazarus Colloredo, Laloo Ramparsad, and Lillie "Betty Lou" Williams. These people not only survived childhood but all went on to be famous as performers. They all appear to have died relatively young, in their 20s or 30s. Similar to other sideshow performers I've written about, these three people survived and made money in the only way that was deemed "acceptable" (and I use that very loosely) for them. Their stories span centuries and continents, connected by a rare physical difference and the determination to survive in a world that was disgusted by them.
A parasitic twin (also called "asymmetrical conjoined twin" or "vestigial twin") is a very rare type of conjoined twin, accounting for 10% of all conjoined twins. One fetus does not develop completely - essentially dying in the womb - and remains attached to the other fetus. The baby ("dominant twin") is born with limbs, organs, and other structures from the twin still attached. Because this happens so early in embryonic development, the structures can be unrecognizable as to what they are. The dominant twin is at high risk for medical complications and, in modern times, the parasitic twin is surgically removed.
