Complete hydatidiform mole

Complete Hydatidiform Mole is a type of gestational trophoblastic disease that occurs when an abnormal fertilization of an egg leads to the growth of abnormal tissue within the uterus. This condition is characterized by the presence of a mass or tumor that resembles a grape-like structure.

Etiology

The exact cause of Complete Hydatidiform Mole is unknown. However, it is believed to be related to abnormalities in the chromosomes that are involved in fertilization. In a normal pregnancy, the egg and sperm each provide 23 chromosomes. In a Complete Hydatidiform Mole, all the chromosomes come from the father, with none or an inactivated set from the mother.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Complete Hydatidiform Mole can mimic those of a normal pregnancy, such as missed menstrual periods, nausea, and breast tenderness. However, other symptoms may include vaginal bleeding, severe nausea and vomiting, rapid uterine growth, and early onset of preeclampsia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Complete Hydatidiform Mole is usually made through a combination of ultrasound imaging and blood tests to measure levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy. The ultrasound may reveal a cluster of grape-like cysts in the uterus, and blood tests may show abnormally high levels of hCG.

Treatment

Treatment for Complete Hydatidiform Mole typically involves removal of the abnormal tissue from the uterus, a procedure known as dilation and curettage (D&C). Following treatment, regular follow-up is necessary to ensure that all the abnormal tissue has been removed and to monitor for signs of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, a rare but serious complication.

Prognosis

With early detection and proper treatment, the prognosis for Complete Hydatidiform Mole is generally good. However, there is a risk of recurrence and of developing gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

See also

• Partial hydatidiform mole
• Gestational trophoblastic disease
• Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia