Invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

Invasive mole and choriocarcinoma are very rare types of cancer that can occur after pregnancy. They are types of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). Invasive mole is also called persistent trophoblastic disease (PTD).

What is invasive mole and choriocarcinoma?

An invasive mole and choriocarcinoma are cancers that grow from the tissue that forms in the womb during pregnancy. 

Symptoms of invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

Some women may not have any symptoms. This is particularly the case for a woman with an invasive mole as these are usually picked up during follow up for a molar pregnancy.

If there are symptoms, the main symptoms for an invasive mole or choriocarcinoma is vaginal bleeding.

Diagnosing invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

If you develop an invasive mole or choriocarcinoma it usually shows up on tests before you notice any symptoms. Your specialist team will then ask you to go in to see them.

Tests and scans for invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

You might have a number of tests  or scans to help diagnose or monitor an invasive mole or choriocarcinoma. 

Survival for invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

Survival for invasive mole and choriocarcinoma is very high. Nearly all women are cured.

Treatment for invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

The main treatment for invasive mole or choriocarcinoma is chemotherapy. But some women might be offered surgery.

Follow up for invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

You will be closely monitored with blood and urine tests during and after your treatment.

Staging of invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

The stage of an invasive mole or choriocarcinoma tells you how far it has spread.  Your doctors will look at this and other risk factors to plan your treatment.

Risks and causes of invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

The main known risk factor for invasive mole and choriocarcinoma is a previous molar pregnancy.

Last reviewed: 
20 Jun 2023
Next review due: 
19 Jun 2026