High-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia: a case report – an atypical presentation with salient features to the suspicious clinician

Authors

Keywords:

gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, hCG, theca lutein cysts, chemotherapy, hook effect

Abstract

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is a cancer originating from placental tissue with the potential for widespread metastases. Varied presentations present clinicians with a diagnostic challenge. A high index of suspicion will promote timely diagnosis and improved prognosis. This case report discusses an atypical presentation of a young woman with high-risk GTN, with salient features on a routine investigation. It highlights learning points for both gynaecologists and non-gynaecologists regarding GTN, the importance of gynaecological ultrasonography, the relevance of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and how essential gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is in the differential diagnoses for reproductive women presenting with amenorrhoea.

Author Biographies

  • SA Camroodien, University of Cape Town

    Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town and South African Medical Research Council, University of Cape Town Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre, South Africa

  • T Adams, University of Cape Town

    Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town and South African Medical Research Council, University of Cape Town Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre and University of Cape Town Global Surgery, South Africa

  • N Fakie, University of Cape Town

    South African Medical Research Council, University of Cape Town Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre and Department of Radiation Oncology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, South Africa

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Published

2024-11-29

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 1 (2024)

Section

Case Studies

License

South African Journal of Gynaecological Oncology (SAJGO) Copyright is held by South African Society of Gynaecologic Oncology (SASGO). Copyright of the articles is held by the authors. The work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non-Commercial Works 4.0 South Africa License (CC BY NC). Material submitted for publication in the SAJGO is accepted provided it has not been published elsewhere. The SAJGO does not hold itself responsible for statements made by the authors. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do no purport to reflect the opinions or views of SASGO or its members.