Gestational Trophoblastic Disease

What is gestational trophoblastic disease?

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is a group of rare diseases in which a tumor develops inside the uterus from tissue that forms after conception. This tissue is made of trophoblast cells and normally surrounds the fertilized egg in the uterus. Trophoblast cells help connect the fertilized egg to the wall of the uterus and form part of the placenta.

More information about gestational trophoblastic disease (National Cancer Institute)

What GTD is not

Most GTD is not cancerous and does not spread, but some types may become cancerous and spread to nearby tissues or distant parts of the body. GTD should not be confused with uterine cancer, as these are different conditions and have unique symptoms, outlooks, and treatments.

Diagnosis

It’s possible that you could have one or more of the following tests (not all of these will apply to your condition):

  • Blood chemistry studies
  • Imaging (CT scan)
  • Pelvic exam
  • Physical exam and medical history
  • Serum tumor marker test
  • Urinalysis

Treatment

Depending on your unique set of conditions and how far the disease has spread, your treatment could include one or more of the following treatments (not all of these will apply to your condition):

  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation
  • Surgery (hysterectomy)

Your full team of care providers work closely together to review your diagnostic tests, identify the best course of treatment particular to you, and help you understand your diagnosis and what to expect with any treatment you have.