Hydatidiform Mole

Hydatidiform Mole is a rare condition that occurs during pregnancy. It is characterized by abnormal growth of trophoblasts, the cells that normally develop into the placenta. There are two types of hydatidiform mole: complete and partial.

Causes

Hydatidiform moles are caused by problems during the fertilization process of the egg by the sperm. In a complete mole, an empty egg is fertilized by one or two sperm, and all the genetic material is from the father. In a partial mole, a normal egg is fertilized by two sperm or by one sperm that duplicates itself, giving rise to an embryo with too many chromosomes.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of a hydatidiform mole is vaginal bleeding during the first trimester of pregnancy. Other symptoms may include severe nausea and vomiting, early preeclampsia, and rapid enlargement of the uterus.

Diagnosis

Hydatidiform moles are usually diagnosed during routine ultrasound scans in early pregnancy. A high level of the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) can also be a sign of the condition.

Treatment

Treatment for hydatidiform mole usually involves removing the mole from the uterus in a procedure called dilation and curettage (D&C). After treatment, hCG levels are monitored to ensure that all of the mole has been removed.

Complications

In rare cases, a hydatidiform mole can develop into a form of cancer known as choriocarcinoma. This is why it's important to have regular follow-up appointments after treatment.

See also

• Pregnancy
• Choriocarcinoma
• Dilation and Curettage

References

Hydatidiform Mole Resources
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