Diagnosis and Treatment of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (Gtd)
Gestational trophoblastic disease (Gtd) is actually a set of diseases that arise from cells related to pregnancy that become cancerous. Gtd occurs following fertilization when placenta forms in the absence of a fetus, or with a partial and abnormal fetus. Gtd can follow a normal full-term pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy, a miscarriage, or an abortion.
Types of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease
There are two main types of Gtd: Hydatidiform mole and choriocarcinoma
Hydatidiform Mole
Hydatidiform mole is the most common form of Gtd, and occurs following fertilization when the placenta forms in the absence of a fetus, or with a partial and abnormal fetus. About 0.1% of all pregnancies result in hydatidiform mole, although the rate is higher in Asia and in women over 40 years old.
Choriocarcinoma
Choriocarcinoma is a cancerous condition that most commonly occurs following a hydatidiform mole. It is much more rare, occurring in about 0.004% of all pregnancies, although the rate is higher in Asia and in women over 40 years old.
Stanford Expertise
Detection, treatment, and especially follow-up care are critical for a women with Gtd because treatment almost always results in a cure, but the disease can reoccur and needs to be addressed promptly.
Stanford Cancer Center physicians are well-versed in the treatment of Gtd, and can manage your follow-up care which will initially include weekly testing, followed by monthly, and then bi-monthly testing for at least a year.
Our skilled staff also provide compassionate care and will provide support to help you cope with this emotionally difficult condition
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