Which of the following histopathological features is characteristic of complete hydatidiform mole but NOT partial hydatidiform mole?
- A Trophoblastic hyperplasia
- B Absence of fetal red blood cells in villous capillaries ✓
- C Hydropic swelling of chorionic villi
- D Scalloping of chorionic villi
Correct answer: B. Absence of fetal red blood cells in villous capillaries
Explanation
Complete moles show diffuse villoid hydropic swelling, marked trophoblastic hyperplasia, and ABSENCE of fetal tissue including fetal red blood cells. Partial moles have focal trophoblastic hyperplasia, scalloped villi with trophoblast inclusions, and PRESENCE of fetal red blood cells or fetal parts. Both show hydropic swelling and trophoblastic hyperplasia to varying degrees, making options A and C nondiscriminatory.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.