TAPS is a condition in identical twins when they share a single placenta. In TAPS, one twin gets too much blood and the other not enough. This leads to one twin having too few red blood cells (lifeless) and another having too many (polycythemia).

The twin receiving too much blood might have thicker blood and slow blood flow, increasing the risk of blood clots. The other twin, who gets less blood, becomes anemic, making them very pale compared to their sibling.

Doctors use a special ultrasound to examine the blood flow in the twins' brains. They're checking for differences in how fast the blood moves, which can tell if one twin is anemic and the other is polycythemic. The Leiden staging system helps them understand how severe the condition is.

Doctors can sometimes perform surgery before the twins are born to balance the blood flow. They use a laser to carefully manage the blood vessels in the placenta, helping ensure both twins get the right amount of blood.

With early diagnosis and proper treatment, many twins with TAPS can have positive outcomes. However, there can be challenges like hearing loss or developmental delays, especially if the condition is severe or treatment is delayed. Regular check-ups and early interventions are key to helping these twins thrive.