Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD)

Definition

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is a group of rare tumors that involve abnormal growth of cells inside the uterus, originating from the tissue that normally develops into the placenta during pregnancy.

Characteristics

GTD includes benign forms like hydatidiform mole (molar pregnancy) and malignant forms such as choriocarcinoma and placental-site trophoblastic tumor. Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, an unusually large uterus for pregnancy stage, severe nausea, or high blood pressure early in pregnancy.

Diagnosis and Prognosis

Diagnosis involves blood tests to measure human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels, ultrasound, and sometimes biopsy. Prognosis is excellent for most forms, especially when diagnosed early. Malignant GTD usually responds very well to chemotherapy.

Treatment

Treatment often includes surgical removal of abnormal tissue by dilation and curettage (D&C). Chemotherapy is commonly used for malignant types, and follow-up monitoring of hCG levels is essential to ensure complete remission.

Last Revised: 12 May , 2025