A 28-year-old woman presents with vaginal bleeding and an enlarged uterus at 14 weeks gestation. Ultrasound shows a 'snowstorm' appearance with no fetal parts. Serum beta-hCG is markedly elevated at 200,000 mIU/mL. Beta-hCG is the characteristic tumor marker for which gestational trophoblastic disease?
- A Complete hydatidiform mole ✓
- B Placental site trophoblastic tumor
- C Invasive mole only
- D Choriocarcinoma only
Correct answer: A. Complete hydatidiform mole
Explanation
Complete hydatidiform mole classically presents with markedly elevated beta-hCG, uterine size greater than dates, and a characteristic 'snowstorm' ultrasound appearance without fetal parts. While choriocarcinoma and invasive mole also elevate beta-hCG, the snowstorm appearance with absent fetal parts is pathognomonic for complete mole. Placental site trophoblastic tumor produces human placental lactogen and has only mildly elevated beta-hCG.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.