Choriocarcinoma
Encyclopedia : C : CH : CHO : Choriocarcinoma
Choriocarcinoma is a malignant and aggressive cancer of the placenta. It is characterized by early hematogenous spread to the lungs.
Etiology/Epidemiology
It is preceded by- hydatidiform mole (50% of cases)
- abortion of ectopic pregnancy (20% of cases)
- normal term pregnancy (20-30% of cases)
Symptoms/Signs/Labs
- increased β-hCG levels
- vaginal bleeding
Pathology
On light microscopy, there is malignant trophoblastic proliferation without hydropic villi.Treatment
Choriocarcinoma is one of the tumors that is most sensitive to chemotherapy. The cure rate, even for metastatic choriocarcinoma, is around 90-95%. Virtually everyone without metastases can be cured. Chemotherapy regimen include EMACO (etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin D, cyclosphosphamide and oncovin).Hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) can also be offered to patients > 40 years of age or those desiring sterilization. It may be required for those with severe infection and uncontrolled bleeding.
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