Trophoblastic Cancer

Program Overview. At The Lacks Cancer Center, our gestational trophoblastic disease treatment programs are increasing hope every day, thanks to a unique multidisciplinary model of care, which incorporates a staff of progressive physicians and the most innovative technologies available. In addition to this model, we continually review and apply the latest anti-cancer drugs, the newest staging and imaging techniques and the most effective surgical procedures to ensure the best outcomes in the treatment of gestational trophoblastic disease.

Gestational Trophoblastic Disease Overview. Gestational trophoblastic disease includes a variety of tumors arising from the placenta. For this reason they occur in women during their childbearing years. The three primary forms of gestational trophoblastic tumors are:
 

• Hydatidiform Mole (Molar Pregnancy). Occurring in approximately one in every 1,500 to 2,000 pregnancies in the U.S., hydatidiform mole develops as a result of an abnormal conception (joining of the sperm and the egg). Typical symptoms include bleeding during pregnancy, absence of fetal heart tones or fetal movement and no identifiable fetus on ultrasound. Although it is not a true cancer, it can invade the wall of the womb or even spread to other parts of the body. Treatment involves removal of the abnormal tissue through D&C. Occasionally, chemotherapy (use of potent drugs) is required to kill any remaining tissue. Even when spread, the disease is rarely fatal.
• Choriocarcinoma. These tumors may begin as a hydatidiform mole or they may develop from tissue that remains in the uterus after an abortion or natural delivery. Choriocarcinoma is an aggressive cancer that often spreads to other parts of the body. Treatment involves aggressive, specialized chemotherapy (use of potent drugs), which when administered correctly often cures the disease.
• Placental-site Trophoblastic Disease. This highly uncommon type of gestational trophoblastic disease develops where the placenta was once attached to the uterus. Treatment often involves a hysterectomy and, in some cases, additional chemotherapy (use of potent drugs to kill remaining cancer cells).
   

If your doctor suspects gestational trophoblastic disease please contact our gynecological oncologist through a referral from your primary care physician or with a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-685-LACK(S).