Hydatidiform mole (patient information)
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Editor-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S.,M.D. [1] Phone:617-632-7753; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan, M.B.B.S.
Overview
A hydatidiform mole is a rare mass or growth that forms inside the uterus at the beginning of a pregnancy. It is a type of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD).
What are the symptoms of Hydatidiform mole?
- Abnormal growth of the womb (uterus):
- Excessive growth in about half of cases
- Smaller-than-expected growth in about a third of cases
- Nausea and vomiting that may be severe enough to require a hospital stay
- Vaginal bleeding in pregnancy during the first 3 months of pregnancy
- Symptoms of hyperthyroidism:
- Heat intolerance
- Loose stools
- Rapid heart rate
- Restlessness, nervousness
- Skin warmer and more moist than usual
- Trembling hands
- Unexplained weight loss
- Symptoms similar to preeclampsia that occur in the 1st trimester or early 2nd trimester. This is almost always a sign of a hydatidiform mole, because preeclampsia is extremely rare this early in a normal pregnancy
What causes Hydatidiform mole
- A hydatidiform mole, or molar pregnancy, results from over-production of the tissue that is supposed to develop into the placenta. The placenta normally feeds a fetus during pregnancy. In this condition, the tissues develop into an abnormal growth, called a mass.
- There are two types:
- Partial molar pregnancy: A partial molar pregnancy means there is an abnormal placenta and some fetal development.
- Complete molar pregnancy: In a complete molar pregnancy, there is an abnormal placenta but no fetus.
- Both forms are due to problems during fertilization. The exact cause of fertilization problems are unknown. However, a diet low in protein, animal fat, and vitamin A may play a role.
Diagnosis
- A pelvic examination may show signs similar to a normal pregnancy, but the size of the womb may be abnormal and the baby's heart sounds are absent. There may be some vaginal bleeding.
- A pregnancy ultrasound will show an abnormal placenta with or without some development of a baby.
- Tests may include:
- HCG blood test
- Chest x-ray
- CT or MRI of the abdomen
- Complete blood count
- Blood clotting tests
- Kidney and liver function tests
Treatment options
- If your doctor suspects a molar pregnancy, a suction curettage (D and C) may be performed.
- A hysterectomy may be an option for older women who do not wish to become pregnant in the future.
- After treatment, serum HCG levels will be followed.
- It is important to avoid pregnancy and to use a reliable contraceptive for 6 - 12 months after treatment for a molar pregnancy. This allows for accurate testing to be sure that the abnormal tissue does not return. Women who get pregnant too soon after a molar pregnancy have a greater risk of having another one.
Where to find medical care for Hydatidiform mole?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Hydatidiform mole
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
- More than 80% of hydatidiform moles are benign (noncancerous). The outcome after treatment is usually excellent.
- Close follow-up is essential. After treatment, you should use very effective contraception for at least 6 to 12 months to avoid pregnancy.
- In some cases, hydatidiform moles may develop into invasive moles. These moles may grow so far into the uterine wall and cause bleeding or other complications.
- In a few cases, a hydatidiform mole may develop into a choriocarcinoma, a fast-growing cancerous form of gestational trophoblastic disease.
Possible complications
- Lung problems may occur after a D and C if the woman's uterus is bigger than 16 weeks gestational size.
- Other complications related to the surgery to remove a molar pregnancy include:
- Preeclampsia
- Thyroid problems