Molar pregnancies - Symptoms, Causes, Images, and Treatment Options

Diseases

Highlights & Basics

Key Highlights

Molar pregnancies (MPs; hydatidiform moles) are chromosomally abnormal pregnancies that have the potential to become malignant.
There is a higher possibility of MP in women less than 20 years of age or over 35 years of age, and in those who have experienced MP in a previous pregnancy.
The most common presenting symptom is vaginal bleeding.
Suction evacuation (electrical or manual) is the preferred management option in women who desire preservation of fertility.
Hysterectomy may be considered in women who do not want to preserve fertility.

Ultrasound showing multiple cystic areas in the uterine cavity giving a "snowstorm appearance" suggestive of molar pregnancy.

Nigam A, Kumari A, Gupta N. Negative urine pregnancy test in a molar pregnancy: is it possible? Case Reports 2014;2014:bcr2014206483.

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History & Exam
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Definition

Epidemiology

Etiology

Pathophysiology

Images

Ultrasound showing multiple cystic areas in the uterine cavity giving a "snowstorm appearance" suggestive of molar pregnancy.

Citations

Key Articles

Horowitz NS, Eskander RN, Adelman MR, et al. Epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of gestational trophoblastic disease: A Society of Gynecologic Oncology evidenced-based review and recommendation. Gynecol Oncol. 2021 Dec;163(3):605-13.[Abstract][Full Text]
Ngan HYS, Seckl MJ, Berkowitz RS, et al. Diagnosis and management of gestational trophoblastic disease: 2021 update. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2021 Oct;155 Suppl 1(suppl 1):86-93.[Abstract][Full Text]
Tidy, J, Seckl, M, Hancock, BW, on behalf of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Management of gestational trophoblastic disease. BJOG 2021;128: e1-e27.[Full Text]
Lok C, van Trommel N, Massuger L, et al. Practical clinical guidelines of the EOTTD for treatment and referral of gestational trophoblastic disease. Eur J Cancer. 2020 May;130:228-40.[Abstract]

Referenced Articles

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