The cranial bones were distinctly felt, and the top of the
head was covered by a circlet of hair. There were two rudimentary
eyebrows; the left eye was represented by a minute perforation
encircled with hair; the right eye was traced by one end of a
mucous groove which ran down to another transverse groove
representing the mouth; the right third of this latter groove
showed a primitive tongue and a triangular tooth, which appeared
at the fifth month. There was a soft, imperforate nose, and the
elements of the vertebral column could be distinguished beneath
the skin; there were no legs; apparently no vascular sounds;
there was separate sensation, as the parasite could be pinched
without attracting the perfect infant's notice. The mouth of the
parasite constantly dribbled saliva, but showed no indication of
receiving aliment.
Louise L., known as "La dame a quatre jambes," was born in 1869,
and had attached to her pelvis another rudimentary pelvis and two
atrophied legs of a parasite, weighing 8 kilos. The attachment
was effected by means of a pedicle 33 cm. in diameter, having a
bony basis, and being fixed without a joint. The attachment
almost obliterated the vulva and the perineum was displaced far
backward.
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