Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (Choriocarcinoma)
Overview
Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is a group of rare tumors that involve abnormal growth of trophoblast cells, which normally develop into the placenta during pregnancy. One aggressive form is choriocarcinoma, a malignant tumor that can spread quickly but responds well to treatment.
Types of GTD include:
- Hydatidiform mole (complete or partial molar pregnancy)
- Invasive mole
- Choriocarcinoma
- Placental-site trophoblastic tumor (PSTT)
Symptoms
- Irregular or heavy vaginal bleeding
- Enlarged uterus inconsistent with gestational age
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- High levels of hCG (even without viable pregnancy)
- Symptoms of metastasis (e.g., cough, headache, seizures)
Causes & Risk Factors
- Prior molar pregnancy
- Age extremes (<20 or >35)
- History of miscarriage
- Asian or South American ancestry (higher risk)
Diagnosis
- Quantitative hCG blood test
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Chest X-ray or CT (to check for metastasis)
- MRI or brain scan if neurologic symptoms present
- Histopathological exam after uterine evacuation
Treatment Options
- Uterine evacuation (suction curettage)
- Chemotherapy (methotrexate or EMA-CO regimen)
- Hysterectomy (in select cases or PSTT)
- Radiation or surgery for metastatic disease
Prognosis
- Excellent for most forms with early detection and chemotherapy
- Nearly 100% cure rate for non-metastatic disease
- Choriocarcinoma with distant spread also has high cure rate with aggressive treatment
Living with this Cancer Type
- Regular hCG monitoring post-treatment (up to 12 months)
- Contraception recommended during monitoring
- Emotional support and fertility counseling
Prevention & Screening
- No definitive prevention
- Early ultrasound and monitoring after molar pregnancy
- Genetic counseling for recurrent GTD
FAQs
Q: Is GTD cancer?
A: Some forms, like choriocarcinoma and PSTT, are cancerous. Others (like moles) are precancerous.
Q: Can I get pregnant again?
A: Yes. Most women can have healthy pregnancies after treatment and follow-up.
Q: How long is hCG monitored?
A: Usually for 6–12 months after hCG normalizes
Resources
- International Society for the Study of Trophoblastic Diseases
- Gynecologic Cancer Foundation
- ClinicalTrials.gov
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