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This word originates from the root terms [-lith-], which arises from the Greek word [λίθος] meaning “stone” and the term [-pedion-] (or [pædion]) which is also Greek [παιδί] meaning “child”. In simple terms this would mean a “stone child”.
Strangely enough, “stone children” or lithopædia are rare cases found in nature, and have been described in humans since early times, the first one by Abū al-Qāsim (Abulcasis) in the 10th century.
When found, it is usually a fetus of more than 12 weeks of estimated age. This is because a younger fetus, if it dies, will usually be reabsorbed by the mother’s body. Usually they are ectopic pregnancies where the fetus dies and is calcified, turning into “stone”.
Technically there are three types of lithopaedia:
1. Lithokelyphos: Only the surrounding fetal membranes calcify. The fetus decomposes and is absorbed, while the calcified membranes protect the mother from the effects of necrosis.
2. Lithokelyphopaedion: Where the membranes and the fetus calcify.
3. True lithopedion, also known as “lithopedion proper”, or lithotecnon. The most common presentation when found, only the fetus is calcified.
The incidence of lithopedia is estimated close to 1.8% of ectopic pregnancies. The following images are of a lithopedion case described by Bainbridge in 1911 and include an X-Ray of the lithopedion.
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