What is the Gestational Trophoblastic Tumour?
The gestational trophoblastic tumour is a very rare type of tumour that develops in early pregnancy, with gestational trophoblastic tumour, an abnormal proliferation of placental cells occurs instead of fetal ones. The placenta is a structure or organ that develops during pregnancy in the uterus and provides protection, nutrients, blood, and oxygen to the fetus. It is a very rare tumour; the incidence is 1 in 1000 pregnancies in the United States. Usually, gestational trophoblastic tumours are benign, but in very rare cases they can become malignant.
Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, but certain risk factors, such as maternal age of less than 20 and over 35 at the time of pregnancy, a history of miscarriages, and a history of previous molar pregnancy, are risk factors for the development of gestational trophoblastic tumour.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Pain or mass in the pelvic or lower part of the abdomen
- A larger size of the uterus or abdomen compare to the pregnancy date, size of the abdomen is larger for gestational age. Gestational age is the term used to estimate the age of pregnancy; it can be calculated from the first day of the last menstrual cycle to the current pregnancy date.
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding ( bleeding from the vagina other than menstruation)
- Severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are
- Complete blood count ( CBC)
- Serum tumour markers
- Serum HCG levels
- Imaging techniques like ultrasonography (USG), CT-scan, MRI, and X-Ray to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Pelvic examination through per-speculum examination of the vagina, cervix, and ovaries. A speculum is a gynecological instrument used to visualize the vaginal wall, cervix, uterus, and ovaries to detect any abnormality.
- Transvaginal USG
Treatment
The selection of the right treatment depends upon the age of the patient, the medical condition of the patient, the nature of the tumour, and the site size and extent of the tumour.
- Dilation and curettage is the main treatment option for the gestational trophoblastic tumour
- Hysterectomy (complete removal of the uterus along with the tumour in cancerous cases of the gestational trophoblastic tumour)
- Chemotherapy and radiation therapy is a treatment options when the tumour has spread to other parts of the body.
What Support can we Give for Gestational Trophoblastic Tumour ?
Gestational Trophoblastic Tumour is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Gestational Trophoblastic Tumour, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
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Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
