Multiple pregnancies with complete mole and coexisting normal fetus in North and South America: A retrospective multicenter cohort and literature review

Abstract

Objective. To determine the clinical characteristics of multiple gestation with complete mole and coexisting fetus (CHMCF) in North and South America. Methods. Retrospective non-concurrent cohorts compromised of CHMCF from New England Trophoblastic Disease Center (NETDC) (1966-2015) and four Brazilian Trophoblastic Disease Centers (BTDC) (1990-2015). Results. From a total of 12,455 cases of gestational trophoblastic disease seen, 72 CHMCF were identified. Clinical characteristics were similar between BTDC (n = 46) and NETDC (n = 13) from 1990 to 2015, apart from a much higher frequency of potentially life-threatening conditions in Brazil (p = 0.046). There were no significant changes in the clinical presentation or outcomes over the past 5 decades in NETDC (13 cases in 1966-1989 vs 13 cases in 1990-2015). Ten pregnancies were electively terminated and 35 cases resulted in viable live births (60% of 60 continued pregnancies). The overall rate of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) was 46%; the cases which progressed to GTN presented with higher chorionic gonadotropin levels (p = 0.026) and higher frequency of termination of pregnancy due to medical complications (p = 0.006) when compared to those with spontaneous remission. Conclusions. The main regional difference in CHMCF presentation is related to a higher rate of potentially life threatening conditions in South America. Sixty percent of the expectantly managed CHMCF delivered a viable infant, and the overall rate of GTN in this study was 46%. Elective termination of pregnancy did not influence the risk for GTN; however the need for termination due to complications and higher hCG levels were associated with development of GTN in CHMCF.