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.