Are You Your Own Twin? Understanding Chimerism
Chimerism is a condition where an individual is comprised of at least two genetically distinct sets of cells, meaning their bodies contain at least two different sets of DNA. This can occur naturally in several ways, such as microchimerism, twin chimerism, and fusion or tetramic chimerism. In rare instances, individuals with chimerism may have patches of different colored skin, two different colored eyes, or both male and female genitalia. Most often, these individuals don't have any symptoms and can live their whole lives without knowing it. Chimerism can also occur artificially, such as through transfusions or transplants.