Master of Science, Doctor Duong Ngoc Hung, from Tam Anh Cau Giay General Clinic, stated that Ms. Hoa had a complete molar pregnancy, meaning there was no embryo, and all chorionic villi had transformed into fluid-filled sacs. Her beta-hCG test result was approximately 258,000 mIU/mL, which is abnormally high compared to the progression of an early pregnancy (which typically does not exceed 100,000 mIU/mL). An ultrasound revealed numerous small structures densely packed within the uterine cavity.

Given Ms. Hoa's age and having already had children, after assessing her condition and considering her wishes, Doctor Hung performed a total hysterectomy, preserving both ovaries. This approach effectively removed the molar mass from the uterus and reduced the risk of recurrence.

The surgical team noted that the patient's uterus was enlarged, comparable to a three-month pregnancy, and contained much degenerate trophoblastic tissue. Ms. Hoa recovered stably and was discharged after one week.

Doctor Hung consults Ms. Hoa during a follow-up appointment. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

According to Doctor Hung, a molar pregnancy is a condition where placental tissue develops abnormally within the uterus. Instead of forming a normal placenta to nourish a fetus, the chorionic villi become swollen, forming many small fluid-filled sacs. Patients may experience pregnancy-like symptoms such as delayed menstruation, nausea, and a positive pregnancy test, but the pregnancy does not develop normally.

Most molar pregnancies are benign if treated and monitored correctly. However, some cases can progress to persistent gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) after treatment. When trophoblastic cells continue to grow, invading the uterine muscle or spreading to other organs, there is a risk of progressing to choriocarcinoma.

The treatment approach for a molar pregnancy depends on the patient's age, condition, risk of complications, and individual needs. For younger women who still wish to have children, doctors often prioritize suction curettage, followed by regular beta-hCG monitoring until the levels return to normal and stabilize.

According to Doctor Hung, the incidence of molar pregnancy ranges from 1/500 to 1/1,000 pregnancies. The condition can affect any woman of reproductive age, with a higher risk for those who become pregnant at a very young age or over 40, have a history of molar pregnancy, have experienced multiple miscarriages, or have certain other risk factors.

Doctors recommend that women of reproductive age who experience pregnancy-like symptoms seek early gynecological examination. This allows for confirmation of pregnancy and early detection of abnormalities such as ectopic pregnancy, missed miscarriage, or molar pregnancy.

Van Anh

*Patient's name has been changed*