Epithelioid trophoblastic tumor (ETT) is a rare form of GTN. Which of the following is a DISTINGUISHING feature of ETT from placental site trophoblastic tumor (PSTT)?

• A ETT arises from intermediate trophoblasts of villous type; PSTT arises from syncytiotrophoblasts
• B ETT is relatively chemoresistant and surgery is the primary treatment, similar to PSTT ✓
• C ETT produces very high levels of β-hCG compared to PSTT
• D ETT arises from cytotrophoblasts and responds excellently to EMA-CO chemotherapy

Explanation

Both ETT and PSTT are non-choriocarcinoma forms of GTN arising from intermediate trophoblasts and are relatively resistant to standard EMA-CO chemotherapy. Surgery (hysterectomy) is the cornerstone of treatment for both. ETT arises from chorionic-type intermediate trophoblasts (not cytotrophoblasts), while PSTT arises from implantation-site intermediate trophoblasts. Both typically produce low levels of β-hCG but relatively higher levels of hPL in PSTT. This chemoresistance distinguishes them from choriocarcinoma.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.