Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD)
Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) involves pregnancy-related tumors derived from placental cells. From benign moles to serious malignancies, timely medical care is vital.
Book Now with an Gynecologic OncologistWhat is Gestational Trophoblastic Disease?
Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) is a broad term that encompasses a group of pregnancy-related tumors. These tumors originate from the cells that would typically develop into the placenta during a pregnancy.
While some forms of GTD are benign (non-cancerous) like hydatidiform moles, others are malignant (cancerous) and can invade deep into the uterine tissue or spread to other parts of the body.
What are the symptoms of GTD?
The symptoms of GTD can vary based on the type and extent of the disease. Some common symptoms include:- Vaginal bleeding not associated with menstruation
- A larger-than-expected uterus
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Early preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy)
It's essential to note that some cases of GTD might not exhibit noticeable symptoms initially, emphasizing the importance of regular prenatal check-ups.
Are there different types of gestational trophoblastic disease?
GTD can be categorized into different types based on its nature and behavior:- Hydatidiform mole (HM): This benign form of GTD is characterized by an abnormal growth of placenta-like tissue in the uterus. It doesn't spread outside the uterus.
- Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN): This is a malignant form that can invade the muscle layer of the uterus and potentially spread to other parts of the body. GTN can further be classified into different stages based on the extent of spread.
- Placental-site gestational trophoblastic tumors (PSTT) and epithelioid trophoblastic tumors (ETT): These are rare forms of GTD and can be either benign or malignant.
What are the different treatment options for gestational trophoblastic disease at Nuvance Health?
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Treatment options
Treatment for GTD is determined by the type of disease, its stage, and other individual factors:
- Surgery: Procedures like dilatation and curettage (D&C) or hysterectomy can be used to remove tumors or the entire uterus.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Depending on the risk group and disease stage, single or combination chemotherapy might be administered.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to target and kill cancer cells. This can be external (from a machine) or internal (using radioactive substances placed inside the body).
- Clinical Trials: These are research studies designed to test new treatments or treatment combinations. Participating in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge therapies that might be more effective than current standard treatments.
Why Choose us?
Compassionate guidance for GTD challenges.
Facing Gestational Trophoblastic Disease can be overwhelming, but you're not alone. At Nuvance Health®, we understand the complexities of GTD and the impact it can have on your life. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step, offering personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Dive deep into understanding, get answers and discover a supportive community ready to help. Ready to take the next step? Book Now with an Gynecologic Oncologist
