Letter T

Twin

One of two children produced in the same pregnancy and born during the same birth process.

Twins can develop from one ovum (egg) or from two ova (eggs): > >Twins from one ovum: Twins that develop from a single ovum are called monozygotic.

They are said to identical twins and have identical genomes.

>Twins from two ova: Twins that develop from two ova that are fertilized at the same time are called dizygotic.

They are nonidentical twins and have different genomes.

</LI></UL> The term 'fraternal' is often applied to nonidentical twins but it may be misleading.

Nonidentical twins can be of the same sex (two brothers or two sisters) or of different sex (brother and sister).

The better term is 'nonidentical.'

Medical disclaimer

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It does not replace the advice of a physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
It does not represent a prescription of drugs, diagnostic exams or therapies.
In case of symptoms, doubts or concerns about your health, always consult a qualified physician.

In case of emergency call 911 (US) or 112 (EU).