A Case of Complete Hydatidiform Mole with Coexistent Live Fetus

Kim, Nac Keun; Kim, Dong Hyun; Kim, Young Tae; Yang, Young Ho; Kim, Jae Wook; Park, Young Nyun

Abstract

Hydatidiform moles are generally separated into two clasifications. Complete hydatidiform moles are characterized by cystic swlling of all villi, often pronounced trophoblastic hyperplasia, lack of fetal parts, all 46 chromosomes of paternal origin(androgenesis), and a major risk for persistent trophoblastic tumor. Partial hydatidiform moles appear to be a milder version of complete moles with both normal and cystic villi, focal trophoblastic hyperplasia, a fetus or indications of previous fetal existence, 69 chromosomes with a maternal contribution, and a malignant potential less than described for complete moles. Hydatidiform mole with coexistent fetus is a very rare phenomenon, with an estimated incidence of 0.005 to 0.01 percent of all pregnancies. The rarity of live-born, surviving children may in part be due to termination of pregnancies, when molar parts are observed and without access to current advanced diagnostic procedures. Progress in techniques for first trimester prenatal diagnosis and improved surveillance of first trimester pregnancies through prenatal chromosomal analysis, ultrasound scan, maternal serum-hCG and serum- AFP screening has created complex situation, allowing confirmation of hydatidiform mole with coexisitng fetus. We recently experienced one case of unusual pregnancy with complete hydatidiform mole and coexisiting live fetus.