Molar Pregnancy

Alternate Names : Hydatiform Mole, Trophoblastic Disease, Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia

How is the condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a history and physical exam. There is usually a history of a recent pregnancy, whether or not a child was born. A blood test is done to measure the level of HCG, the "hormone of pregnancy." In a molar pregnancy, the level of HCG becomes too high because of the abnormal fetal tissue.

If the level of HCG is abnormally high, an ultrasound can help locate and confirm the tumor. A chest x-ray or MRI or CT scan of different parts of the body may be done if the healthcare provider suspects that the tumor has spread to other organs.