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Choriocarcinoma is an aggressive cancerous form of gestational trophoblastic disease, usually from a molar pregnancy.
What is Gestational Trophoblastic Disease? Known also as GTD, these abnormal cells begin in the layer of trophoblastic cells at the formation of the placenta in any pregnancy. They are tumors in the uterus and can begin to attach into the uterine muscle (invasive). Most GTD are not malignant/cancerous. There are various form of GTD, the most common being molar pregnancies some of which turn into choriocarcinoma (placental cancer). These germ cells are microscopic and are rapid moving and aggressive but respond very well to chemotherapy (if caught in time). Metastasis is from the uterus to the lungs, liver and the brain. Treatment includes b-hcg monitoring, D&C surgery and chemotherapy. Sometimes a hysterectomy is also needed. Treatment has a high cure rate if caught in time. FIGO Score and Staging Levels are used along with varied scans and symptoms. Monitoring b-hcg levels will take effect to see if it drops down on its own in ample time. Should it not, then further treatment will be needed such as chemo even if not malignant. VOCABULARY BREAKDOWN: Tropho means nutrition, blast means early cell developmental, neoplasm means new growth, and gestational references pregnancy Chorio means any membrane which encloses the fetus or combining form and carcinoma means malignant tumor of the epithelial No matter where an individual's journey may be in their GTD diagnosis, this can be very difficult and heartbreaking. Pregnancy loss, false hopes, and staggering fear are some of the broad spectrums of this. Many do move on to have a 'rainbow baby' after this journey. Those that were treated with chemo deal with chemo side effects, some of which are permanent. But remember, you are not alone. |
Types of GTD:
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Symptoms Can Include:
(based on metastasis)
•Abnormal or vaginal bleeding, even hemorrhaging
•Increased or high b-hcg pregnancy hormone levels
•Thickened uterine wall
•Other pregnancy symptoms
•Abdominal/pelvic pain
•Cough, trouble breathing
•High liver enzymes
•Headache
•Dizziness
•Fainting
•Seizures
(based on metastasis)
•Abnormal or vaginal bleeding, even hemorrhaging
•Increased or high b-hcg pregnancy hormone levels
•Thickened uterine wall
•Other pregnancy symptoms
•Abdominal/pelvic pain
•Cough, trouble breathing
•High liver enzymes
•Headache
•Dizziness
•Fainting
•Seizures
B-HCG Monitoring is Pertinent
Continuous b-hcg monitoring is critical for treatment, best control, and prevention of further complications. Although home pregnancy tests can pick up levels from about <6-12, blood draws remain the most effective, picking up minute levels.
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*Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only.
*Permission to use content on this website if credit is given to the creator of this website*
Last Updated on June 11, 2024
