Diagnosis and Management of Molar Pregnancies.

Complete and partial molar pregnancies arise from abnormal fertilization with marked proliferation of syncytiotrophoblasts. Earlier diagnosis has reduced the frequency of severe medical complications at presentation; however, the risk of progression to gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) has remained unchanged. Initial assessment should include serum hCG measurement after physical examination, laboratory testing for organ dysfunction, and Doppler ultrasound. Following uterine evacuation, pathologic assessment can distinguish complete from partial moles or non-molar gestations. Close surveillance is essential for the timely diagnosis of GTN. Cure rates and subsequent obstetrics outcomes are excellent, but all patients should be referred for psychologic support and expert level care.

Tubal ectopic molar pregnancy: A case report.

Background: Ectopic molar pregnancy (EMP) is a rare form of gestational trophoblastic disease that occurs when a hydatidiform mole implants outside the uterus. Case Presentation: We describe a 35-yr-old woman with mild abdominal pain, delayed menstruation for 2 months, and high beta-human chorionic gonadotropin levels. Sonography revealed a heterogeneous hyperechoic mass in the left adnexa and fluid in the endometrial cavity, suggestive of a tubal EMP. She underwent endometrial curettage and left salpingectomy. Pathology confirmed the diagnosis of invasive hydatidiform mole/left tubal EMP. The case recovered well and had no complications. Conclusion: This case highlights the need for early diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment of EMP to avoid serious consequences from persistent trophoblastic tumors.

Ruptured large ectopic hydatidiform mole: an infrequent presentation of gestational trophoblastic disease.

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) comprises hydatidiform mole, invasive mole, epithelioid trophoblastic tumor, placental site trophoblastic tumor, and choriocarcinoma. Ectopic molar gestation (EMG) is exceedingly rare with similar malignant potential like that of an intrauterine molar pregnancy. We report an uncommon case of EMG diagnosed by ultrasonography (USG) with a brief literature review. A 36-year-multipara presented at 8-weeks gestational age with severe abdominal pain and spotting. She underwent a spontaneous abortion 4 months back. Current transabdominal USG revealed a large right adnexal hydatidiform mole with moderate hemoperitoneum. Right ovary could not be discerned separately. Emergency laparotomy with hysterectomy and right adnexal clearance was done. Histopathology showed complete ectopic hydatidiform mole. USG remains the modality of choice for initial assessment of suspected GTD and it allows reliable evaluation of residual or recurrent disease. This report emphasizes the role of USG in the diagnosis of EMG and also, the importance of including EMG in the differential diagnosis of suspected ectopic pregnancy.

Preliminary findings on the experiences of care for women who suffered early pregnancy losses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Women who suffer an early pregnancy loss require specific clinical care, aftercare, and ongoing support. In the UK, the clinical management of early pregnancy complications, including loss is provided mainly through specialist Early Pregnancy Assessment Units. The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally changed the way in which maternity and gynaecological care was delivered, as health systems moved to rapidly reconfigure and re-organise services, aiming to reduce the risk and spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection. PUDDLES is an international collaboration investigating the pandemic's impact on care for people who suffered a perinatal bereavement. Presented here are initial qualitative findings undertaken with UK-based women who suffered early pregnancy losses during the pandemic, about how they navigated the healthcare system and its restrictions, and how they were supported. METHODS: In-keeping with a qualitative research design, in-depth semi-structured interviews were undertaken with an opportunity sample of women (N = 32) who suffered any early pregnancy loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analysed using a template analysis to understand women's access to services, care, and networks of support, during the pandemic following their pregnancy loss. The thematic template was based on findings from parents who had suffered a late-miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death in the UK, during the pandemic. RESULTS: All women had experienced reconfigured maternity and early pregnancy services. Data supported themes of: 1) COVID-19 Restrictions as Impractical & Impersonal; 2) Alone, with Only Staff to Support Them; 3) Reduction in Service Provision Leading to Perceived Devaluation in Care; and 4) Seeking Their Own Support. Results suggest access to early pregnancy loss services was reduced and pandemic-related restrictions were often impractical (i.e., restrictions added to burden of accessing or receiving care). Women often reported being isolated and, concerningly, aspects of early pregnancy loss services were reported as sub-optimal. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide important insight for the recovery and rebuilding of health services in the post-pandemic period and help us prepare for providing a higher standard of care in the future and through any other health system shocks. Conclusions made can inform future policy and planning to ensure best possible support for women who experience early pregnancy loss.

Differential diagnosis of non-molar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia with ectopic pregnancy by clinical-pathological features.

PURPOSE: This study was presented to investigate the clinical-pathological characteristics of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) following non-molar pregnancy and differentiated with ectopic pregnancy (EP). METHODS: The clinical data of 83 patients who were admitted for suspected GTN after non-molar pregnancy at the Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University from January 2015 to September 2022 were selected for analysis. RESULTS: In total, 41 cases were confirmed non-molar GTN, including 31 choriocarcinoma, 9 PSTT (placental site trophoblastic tumor), and 1 ETT (epithelioid trophoblastic tumor), while 42 cases were confirmed EP. Compared with ectopic pregnancy, non-molar GTN patients had lower levels of serum progesterone compared with EP (3.81 nmol/L vs 17.70 nmol/L, P = 0.001). Based on the ultrasound, the thickness of the endometrium was thinner in patients with non-molar GTN compared with EP (0.565 cm vs 0.70 cm, P = 0.018). By histopathologic examination, the endothelium of non-molar GTN showed less decidual-like changes compared with EP (64.3% vs 14.6%, P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: A combination of serum progesterone levels, endometrium thickness, and histopathologic features of the endometrium can help to differentiate non-molar GTN and EP. Surgeries including hysteroscopy with curettage and/or laparoscopy are needed.

Molecular Basis of Hydatidiform Moles-A Systematic Review.

Gestational trophoblastic diseases (GTDs) encompass a spectrum of conditions characterized by abnormal trophoblastic cell growth, ranging from benign molar pregnancies to malignant trophoblastic neoplasms. This systematic review explores the molecular underpinnings of GTDs, focusing on genetic and epigenetic factors that influence disease progression and clinical outcomes. Based on 71 studies identified through systematic search and selection criteria, key findings include dysregulations in tumor suppressor genes such as p53, aberrant apoptotic pathways involving BCL-2 (B-cell lymphoma), and altered expression of growth factor receptors and microRNAs (micro-ribose nucleic acid). These molecular alterations not only differentiate molar pregnancies from normal placental development but also contribute to their clinical behavior, from benign moles to potentially malignant forms. The review synthesizes insights from immunohistochemical studies and molecular analyses to provide a comprehensive understanding of GTD pathogenesis and implications for personalized care strategies.

Giant complete hydatidiform mole: a case report and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: This case describes the youngest patient documented in the literature who presented with a giant hydatidiform mole, effectively addressed through conservative treatment. CASE PRESENTATION: Our department received a 20-year-old Caucasian patient who was admitted due to significant metrorrhagia in an undisclosed pregnancy. During examination, we identified a massive, highly vascularized hydatidiform mole measuring 22 cm (cm). We performed a surgical dilatation and curettage. The anatomopathological findings confirmed the presence of a complete hydatidiform mole (CHM). Following the established guidelines, we conducted weekly monitoring of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Unfortunately, the patient discontinued the follow-up and became pregnant again before achieving hCG negativation. CONCLUSION: This case suggests that conservative treatment is a viable option regardless of the size of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), especially when the preservation of fertility is a crucial consideration, as effectively demonstrated in our case.

Contraceptive use following gestational trophoblastic disease: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the effect of contraceptive methods following gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) on timing of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) remission, risk of post-molar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), risk of unintended incident pregnancy, and interactions between contraceptive methods and disease treatment. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a search of primary literature with search terms related to GTD and contraception through April 2023 in PubMed and extrapolated our search to other platforms. Randomized controlled trials, observational studies and case reports were eligible for inclusion if they reported on patients with known GTD who received a contraceptive method for pregnancy prevention. Data was abstracted on our main outcomes of interest: timing of beta-hCG remission, risk of post-molar GTN, risk of unintended incident pregnancy, and interactions between contraceptive methods and cancer-directed systemic disease treatment (e.g., chemotherapy). At least two authors reviewed manuscripts at each screening stage with consensus reached before data extraction. Quality assessment checklists were used to assess risk of bias for the different study types. RESULTS: Five thousand one hundred and five studies were identified in the database search, of which 42 were included for analysis. Eight thousand two hundred and ninety four participants were evaluated. Over half of the studies were case reports and only two were randomized controlled trials. While there was sparse data on all outcomes, no differences were noted in beta-hCG monitoring, risk of post-molar GTN or incident pregnancies between different contraceptive types. Interactions between contraceptive methods and cancer-directed systemic disease treatment (e.g., chemotherapy) or specific adverse events of contraceptive methods were not identified. CONCLUSIONS: Data on contraceptive use following GTD is limited, but use of both hormonal and non-hormonal modern contraceptive methods appears safe. Counseling patients on the full range of contraceptive methods is important to help patients achieve their reproductive health goals and minimize the risk of disease progression through incomplete beta-hCG monitoring prior to future pregnancy. IMPLICATIONS: Hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptive options may be used by patients following gestational trophoblastic disease without apparent changes in beta-hCG regression or risk of post-molar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

Ethnic disparities in complete and partial molar pregnancy incidence: a retrospective analysis of arab and jewish women in single medical center.

BACKGROUND: Molar pregnancies, encompassing complete and partial moles, represent a rare and enigmatic gestational disorder with potential ethnic variations in incidence. This study aimed to investigate relations of ethnicity with risks of complete and partial molar pregnancies within an Israeli population while accounting for age differences. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted of data recorded during 2007-2021 in an academic medical center in Israel. The study population comprised 167 women diagnosed with complete or partial moles, for whom data were obtained through histological examination and P57 immunostaining. Maternal age and ethnicity were extracted from electronic medical records. Incidence rates were calculated per 10,000 live births, and a nested case-control study compared demographic characteristics and molar pregnancy incidences between Arab and Jewish women. Statistical analyses included age-adjusted comparisons, relative risk calculations and multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS: The overall risk of molar pregnancy was 22 per 10,000 live births (95% confidence interval [CI] 18-25). Among Arab women, the overall risk was 21 (95% CI 17-25), and for PM and CM: 14 (95% CI 11-17) and 7 (95% CI 5-10), respectively. Among Jewish women, the overall risk was 23 (95% CI 18-29), and for PM and CM: 12 (95% CI 8-17) and 11 (95% CI 7-16), respectively. Among Arab women compared to Jewish women, the proportion of all the partial moles was higher: (65.3% vs. 51.6%, p = 0.05). The incidence of partial mole was higher among Arab than Jewish women, aged 35-39 years (26 vs. 8 per 10,000, p = 0.041), and did not differ in other age groups. After adjusting for age, the relative risk of partial moles was lower among Jews than Arabs (0.7, 95% CI 0.4-1.0, p = 0.053). For Arab compared to Jewish women, the mean age at molar pregnancies was younger: 31.0 vs. 35.1 years. However, other factors did not differ significantly between Arab and Jewish women with molar pregnancies. In multivariate analysis, Jewish ethnicity was significantly associated with a higher risk of complete molar pregnancies (OR = 2.19, 95% CI 1.09-4.41, p = 0.028). CONCLUSION: This study highlights ethnic differences in molar pregnancy risk within the Israeli population. Jewish ethnicity was associated with a higher risk of complete molar pregnancies, while Arab women had a significantly higher risk of partial moles. These findings underscore the need to consider ethnicity when studying gestational disorders. Further research should seek to elucidate the underlying factors contributing to these differences.

Vaginal Bleeding in a Peri-Menopausal Woman.

Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) is a useful modality to initially identify a molar pregnancy. In this case, we describe a 51-year-old perimenopausal woman who presented to the emergency department (ED) with vaginal bleeding. A transvaginal POCUS was performed, revealing findings concerning for a molar pregnancy. These findings led to prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Molar cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy: Report of 2 cases with review of literature.

Background: The occurrence of hydatidiform mole at the cesarean scar site is a rare problem. Few cases have been reported, thus there is not enough information for accurate diagnosis and management of this event. Case Presentation: Herein, we present 2 cases of an invasive hydatidiform mole embedded in cesarean scar tissue, one presented with occasional hypogastric pain and nausea and another with spotting both with a history of cesarean section. Transvaginal ultrasonography and a considerably high titer of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin blood test suggested the existence of molar pregnancy on the cesarean scar, which was confirmed through histological assessment. In the first case, evacuation of molar pregnancy followed by scar resection at the cesarean scar site led to successful fertility preservation management. Conclusion: The presence of abdominal pain and unexplained bleeding in a pregnant woman without gestational sac in ultrasonography, strongly suggests ectopic pregnancy. The process of diagnosis should be followed by definitive diagnostic evaluation, including beta-human chorionic gonadotropin titer measurement, ultrasonographic assessment (2 and 3-dimensional), magnetic resonance imaging, diagnostic laparoscopy, and finally biopsy of the lesion.

Management of a complete mole and coexisting fetus in post-dobbs world.

BACKGROUND: Twin pregnancies consisting of a complete hydatidiform mole and a coexistent fetus (CMCF) are rare and associated with a high rate of maternal-fetal morbidity and mortality. Management of these pregnancies remains controversial and increasingly challenging following the Dobbs versus Jackson Women's Health decision given the viability of the coexisting twin fetus. CASE: This case looks at the diagnosis, management, and maternal-fetal outcomes of a viable fetus coexisting molar pregnancy at a large academic center in an abortion-restricted state. CONCLUSION: CMCF pregnancies are associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality and are increasingly difficult to manage following the Dobbs decision. Testing platforms, which identify genetic abnormalities in the first trimester, are increasingly important as access to abortion care in the United States is restricted.

Hyperreactio Luteinalis: A Rare Phenomenon Complicating Gestational Trophoblastic Disease Presenting as Acute Abdomen in the Convalescence Period.

The hydatidiform mole is a rare gynaecological condition originating from trophoblastic cells, with an incidence of 1-3 per 1000 pregnancies. Theca lutein cysts (TLCs) and an invasive mole are rarely observed in association with a partial mole. This case describes an unusual case involving a 17-year-old primigravida at 11 weeks of gestation. She presented with abdominal pain and was diagnosed with a molar pregnancy with post-evacuation rupture of TLC, presenting as an acute abdomen, subsequently undergoing laparoscopy. Post-molar pregnancies exhibit a highly variable course, ranging from recurrent pregnancy loss and stillbirths to preterm deliveries and recurrent molar pregnancies. Few studies are available on obstetric outcomes after a molar pregnancy; most available data originate from national databases and monocentric research.

Comparison of the multiples of the median of serum anti-müllerian hormone and pregnancy outcomes in patients with gestational trophoblastic disease: A case-control study.

INTRODUCTION: Chemotherapy is crucial in treating gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), but its impact on gonadotoxicity is unclear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This case-control study included 57 GTN patients and 19 age-matched patients with molar pregnancies (MP) in 2012-2018. Multiples of the median (MoM) of the serum AMH levels were compared between the two groups, and between patients using single-agent and combination chemotherapy, at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months after treatment. Their pregnancy outcomes were also compared. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the MoM of serum AMH between GTN and MP groups at all time points. Single-agent chemotherapy did not adversely affect the MoM. However, those receiving combination chemotherapy had lower MoM than those receiving single-agent chemotherapy at all time points. The trend of decline from the baseline was marginally significant in patients with combination chemotherapy, but the drop was only significant at 12 months (Z = -2.69, p = 0.007) but not at 24 months (Z = -1.90; p = 0.058). Multivariable analysis revealed that combination chemotherapy did not affect the MoM. There was no significant difference in the 4-year pregnancy rate and the livebirth rate between the single-agent and combination groups who attempting pregnancy, but it took 1 year longer to achieve the first pregnancy in the combination group compared to the single-agent group (2.88 vs. 1.88 years). CONCLUSION: This study showed combination chemotherapy led to a decreasing trend of MoM of serum AMH especially at 12 months after treatment, but the drop became static at 24 months. Although pregnancy is achievable, thorough counseling is still needed in this group especially those wish to achieve pregnancy 1-2 years after treatment or with other risk factors.

Complete hydatidiform mole with concurrent fetus: Two cases of live, term birth coupled with spontaneous resolution of molar tissue.

Pregnancies with a complete hydatidiform mole and co-existing fetus (CMCF) are rare, but increasingly common due to the rising prevalence of assisted reproductive technology. They are frequently associated with adverse obstetric outcomes, providing women with the challenge of pregnancy termination or continuing the pregnancy at the risk of maternal-fetal morbidity and fetal mortality. This report demonstrates two cases of CMCF pregnancy with excellent maternal-fetal outcomes, including spontaneous resolution of the molar tissue antenatally. It is helpful in counselling women who are diagnosed with this rare and frequently morbid condition in considering how to proceed with their pregnancy.

A Complete Hydatidiform Mole Complicated by Theca Lutein Cysts in a Teenager: A Rare Case.

A hydatidiform mole (HM), often known as molar pregnancy, is a type of prenatal trophoblastic illness that develops in the placenta and has the potential to spread. HMs are caused by genetic issues with either the egg or the sperm. They are typically discovered in the first trimester of pregnancy. Abnormal bleeding is one of the initial symptoms, which can seldom be accompanied by the passage of hydropic villi. Theca lutein cysts, absent fetal heart tones, enlarged uterus more than anticipated for gestational age, pregnancy-induced hypertension in the first trimester, hyperemesis, and increased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) for gestational dates are other characteristic symptoms and signs. A rare type of follicular cyst known as a theca lutein cyst is a benign ovarian disease caused by natural overstimulation of follicles, also known as hyperreactio lutealis (HL). This is linked to choriocarcinomas, multiple gestations, and prenatal trophoblastic illness (molar pregnancy). Unless exacerbated by torsion, rupture, or bleeding, the majority of theca lutein cysts are treated conservatively. Theca lutein cysts do not impact the course of pregnancy and spontaneously recede following delivery. However, HL may mistakenly be diagnosed by doctors as a cancer during pregnancy if it has the potential to look like one. Frequently, inappropriate surgical intervention is caused by the fear of failing to diagnose malignancy. These treatments may therefore result in decreased fertility in the future. Here we present a case of a young unmarried female with an HM and cysts.

Second curettage versus conventional chemotherapy in avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy and reducing the number of chemotherapy courses for patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). Second curettage had been advocated to avoid unnecessary chemotherapy and to reduce the courses of chemotherapy; however, consensus has not been reached as there are arguments claiming its inability of inducing complete regression. OBJECTIVES: The present study was performed to clarify the effectiveness of second curettage for avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy and lowering the number of chemotherapy courses in patients with post-molar GTN. SEARCH STRATEGY: Seven predominant electronic databases were searched, including four English databases and three Chinese databases, from the inception of each database until January 31, 2023. SELECTION CRITERIA: Studies were included if they were: (1) human, (2) explicitly indicated exposure to second curettage, (3) explicitly indicated control to conventional chemotherapy, (4) explicitly indicated the participants were patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), and (5) compared the outcome of interest as the number of the course of chemotherapy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two authors extracted and analyzed the data independently. Disagreements were reconciled by reviewing the full text by a third author. The data of study location, data collection, study design, number of participants, intervention strategy, control strategy, the follow-up period, outcome, adverse events were analyzed. MAIN RESULTS: With regard to avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy, the overall pooled effect size of the second curettage group had a significant advantage over the conventional chemotherapy group with an OR of 0.02 (95% CI: 0.00-0.06). Meanwhile, for reducing the number of chemotherapy courses, the overall pooled effect size of the second curettage group had significant advantage over the conventional chemotherapy group with a mean difference of -2.11 (95% CI: -3.72 to -0.51). CONCLUSION: The second curettage group had a significant advantage over the conventional chemotherapy group in avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy and reducing the number of chemotherapy courses. Further larger multi-center randomized controlled trials should be conducted to confirm our results and to clarify the optimal patients' group for second curettage in patients with post-molar GTN.

Twin pregnancy: Live fetus with complete hydatidiform molar-A case report.

Gestational trophoblastic disease encompasses a range of lesions, each culminating in varied clinical manifestations. Among these, the simultaneous occurrence of molar changes within the placenta and a viable fetus remains a particularly elusive and challenging presentation, posing intricate dilemmas for obstetricians. In this article, we delineate a distinct case involving a 21-year-old woman with a history of consanguineous marriage. She was referred from Médecins Sans Frontières to the Rafic Hariri University Hospital during her 19th week of gestation. With an unremarkable medical history and uncomplicated previous pregnancies, her presentation to the Rafic Hariri University Hospital was punctuated by symptoms of premature labor. Clinical evaluations revealed ruptured membranes, a fetus-positioned breech, and discernible complications tied to the placental morphology. Given these clinical findings, a decision was made in favor of a Cesarean delivery. Prior to this, the patient had been administered corticosteroids and tocolytics. Subsequent delivery produced a live male infant at 34 + 5 gestational days, and further assessment unveiled a complete molar pregnancy. The coexistence of a viable fetus alongside a complete molar pregnancy is an infrequently documented phenomenon, underlining the clinical significance of this case. A comprehensive literature survey reinforced the exceptional nature of our findings. Postpartum, both the mother and neonate were monitored for a month, ensuring their well-being. This case accentuates the paramountcy of prompt and precise diagnostic interventions when faced with atypical presentations. It further underscores the imperative for obstetricians to possess nuanced expertise in confronting the intricate challenges posed by gestational trophoblastic disease, ensuring optimal maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Molar Pregnancy-Induced Hyperthyroidism: The Importance of Early Recognition and Timely Preoperative Management.

Hyperthyroidism due to gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition. Optimal perioperative management is crucial for favorable outcomes and prevention of thyroid storm. However, scarce data exist defining the ideal approach to this complex clinical presentation. This case report describes a first-time pregnant 32-year-old woman who was found to be biochemically hyperthyroid in the context of a 10-week gestation molar pregnancy. Despite her biochemical values, the patient remained clinically asymptomatic of her thyroid disease. The Gynecology and Anesthesiology services urgently consulted Endocrinology, and empiric treatment for prevention of potential impending thyroid storm was initiated prior to operative uterine evacuation. After 2 uneventful dilation and curettages with chemotherapy and a transient prescription of antithyroid medication, the patient normalized her human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level and recovered to biochemical euthyroidism. Other than a pruritic rash that may have been due to propylthiouracil, the patient's hyperthyroidism improved without further complications. This case highlights the importance of recognizing the link between GTD and thyrotoxicosis to allow for timely initiation of appropriate preoperative treatment. Fortunately, the multidisciplinary approach facilitated management to prevent evolution to thyroid storm.