Authors Keywords: gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, hCG, theca lutein cysts, chemotherapy, hook effect Abstract

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is a cancer originating from placental tissue with the potential for widespread metastases. Varied presentations present clinicians with a diagnostic challenge. A high index of suspicion will promote timely diagnosis and improved prognosis. This case report discusses an atypical presentation of a young woman with high-risk GTN, with salient features on a routine investigation. It highlights learning points for both gynaecologists and non-gynaecologists regarding GTN, the importance of gynaecological ultrasonography, the relevance of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and how essential gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is in the differential diagnoses for reproductive women presenting with amenorrhoea.

Author Biographies

SA Camroodien, University of Cape Town

Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town and South African Medical Research Council, University of Cape Town Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre, South Africa

T Adams, University of Cape Town

Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town and South African Medical Research Council, University of Cape Town Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre and University of Cape Town Global Surgery, South Africa

N Fakie, University of Cape Town

South African Medical Research Council, University of Cape Town Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre and Department of Radiation Oncology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, South Africa

Issue Section

Case Studies

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