Metastatic gestational trophoblastic tumor
What is Metastatic Gestational Trophoblastic Tumor?
Metastatic gestational trophoblastic tumor (GTD) is a rare, but serious type of cancer. It develops in the tissue that nourishes the developing fetus during pregnancy. GTD often occurs after miscarriage or termination of the pregnancy. GTD involve the abnormal growth of cells, which can spread to other parts of the body. If left untreated, GTD can be life-threatening.
Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outlook and long-term outcomes. In most cases, doctors can cure GTD with toxic medications.
Types of GTD
Doctors classify GTD into four main types:
- Choriocarcinoma: This is the most life-threatening type of GTD. It begins in the cells that form the placenta. It can metastasize quickly.
- Hydatidiform mole: Also known as a mole, this type of GTD usually doesn't metastasize. It occurs when the genetic material in an egg has been replaced by an abnormal mass of cells.
- Placental-site trophoblastic tumor: This is a localized GTD that doesn't spread beyond the tissue it started in.
- Epithelioid trophoblastic tumor: This is a form of GTD that is more serious than moles and localized placental tumors, but not as severe as choriocarcinoma. It is often localized, but can spread to other parts of the body.
Causes of GTD
The cause of GTD is unknown. However, some risk factors are associated with an increased chance of developing the disease, including:
- history of GTD in a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling
- history of molar pregnancies, or pregnancies that resulted in moles instead of babies
- exposure to certain medications, such as anti-seizure medications and chemotherapy drugs
- exposure to chemotherapy or radiation used to treat another type of cancer
Symptoms of GTD
Signs and symptoms of GTD vary depending on the type. Common signs and symptoms include:
- vaginal bleeding
- large amounts of urine
- abdominal swelling
- nausea and vomiting
- weight loss
- fatigue
- breast tenderness or pain
Diagnosing GTD
If you have any of the signs or symptoms associated with GTD, your doctor will do a physical exam and look at your medical history. They may order additional tests, such as:
- blood tests to check for tumor markers, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
- radiographic imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI
- laparoscopy, a procedure that involves viewing the inside of the abdomen with a camera
- biopsy, a procedure that involves taking a sample of the tumor to be analyzed in a lab
Treatment options for GTD
Treatment for GTD depends on the type and the stage of the cancer. Your doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan that best suits your needs. Common treatment options include:
- chemotherapy drugs, such as methotrexate and etoposide
- surgery, if needed, to remove the tumor
- radiation therapy, if needed, to shrink tumors
- targeted drug therapy, if needed, to stop the growth of cancer cells
Most people with GTD can be cured with timely diagnosis and treatment. If you are diagnosed with GTD, it's important to follow your doctor's instructions and attend regular follow-up appointments.