Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD)
Gestational trophoblastic disease, also known as a hydatidiform mole or a molar pregnancy,
occurs when the chorionic villi of the placenta increase as a result of genetic abnormalities. The
villi swell, forming fluid-filled sacs, which appear as tiny clusters of grapes within the uterus.
Molar pregnancies are classified as complete or partial based on whether a fetus is present. A
partial mole occurs when a fetus or an amniotic sac is present, whereas a complete mole only
contains the fluid-filled sacs. The fetus is usually nonviable in a molar pregnancy. However,
according to Dente (2007), although it is uncommon, “twinning” has been reported with a
complete [mole] plus a surviving fetus with a normal placenta.”