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Choriocarcinoma

The malignant form of gestational trophoblastic disease has an aggressive course.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Choriocarcinoma?

Choriocarcinoma is the most aggressive form of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). It is the malignant proliferation of cyto- and syncytiotrophoblastic cells. It develops after molar pregnancy in 50%, miscarriage in 25%, and normal pregnancy in 25%.

It spreads rapidly via the bloodstream; it most commonly metastasizes to the lungs, vagina, brain, and liver. Symptoms may be related to metastases: hemoptysis, neurological deficits, abdominal pain.

hCG is an excellent tumor marker for choriocarcinoma. Methotrexate-based chemotherapy provides a cure rate of over 90%. Fertility can be preserved.

Symptoms

Persistent hCG that does not decrease after miscarriage or molar pregnancy
Vaginal bleeding
Hemoptysis (lung metastasis)
Neurological deficit (brain metastasis)
Abdominal pain (liver metastasis)
Vaginal nodules (vaginal metastasis)

Risk Factors

Previous molar pregnancy
Advanced maternal age
Previous choriocarcinoma
Blood type A (slight increased risk)
Low socioeconomic status
Prolonged or late-diagnosed GTD

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Rising hCG in follow-up after molar pregnancy
  • Persistent vaginal bleeding after miscarriage
  • Unexpected hemoptysis or neurological findings
  • Persistent hCG elevation after pregnancy
  • Vaginal bleeding and suspected metastasis

Treatment Methods

01
Risk classification according to FIGO scoring
02
Low risk: single-agent methotrexate (MTX) or dactinomycin
03
High risk: EMA-CO protocol (multi-agent chemotherapy)
04
Whole-brain radiotherapy in brain metastases
05
Fertility preservation strategies
06
Long-term hCG follow-up and new pregnancy planning

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.