Second Curettage for Low-Risk Nonmetastatic Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia. Obstet Gynecol. 2016;128:535-542. [PMID: 27500329 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000001554]

Second curettage versus conventional chemotherapy in avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy and reducing the number of chemotherapy courses for patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). Second curettage had been advocated to avoid unnecessary chemotherapy and to reduce the courses of chemotherapy; however, consensus has not been reached as there are arguments claiming its inability of inducing complete regression.

OBJECTIVES

The present study was performed to clarify the effectiveness of second curettage for avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy and lowering the number of chemotherapy courses in patients with post-molar GTN.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Seven predominant electronic databases were searched, including four English databases and three Chinese databases, from the inception of each database until January 31, 2023.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies were included if they were: (1) human, (2) explicitly indicated exposure to second curettage, (3) explicitly indicated control to conventional chemotherapy, (4) explicitly indicated the participants were patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), and (5) compared the outcome of interest as the number of the course of chemotherapy.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors extracted and analyzed the data independently. Disagreements were reconciled by reviewing the full text by a third author. The data of study location, data collection, study design, number of participants, intervention strategy, control strategy, the follow-up period, outcome, adverse events were analyzed.

MAIN RESULTS

With regard to avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy, the overall pooled effect size of the second curettage group had a significant advantage over the conventional chemotherapy group with an OR of 0.02 (95% CI: 0.00-0.06). Meanwhile, for reducing the number of chemotherapy courses, the overall pooled effect size of the second curettage group had significant advantage over the conventional chemotherapy group with a mean difference of -2.11 (95% CI: -3.72 to -0.51).

CONCLUSION

The second curettage group had a significant advantage over the conventional chemotherapy group in avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy and reducing the number of chemotherapy courses. Further larger multi-center randomized controlled trials should be conducted to confirm our results and to clarify the optimal patients' group for second curettage in patients with post-molar GTN.

Removal of an Intrauterine Polypoid Lesion Resolved Chemotherapy-resistant Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia: A Case Report

Background/Aim

Single-agent chemotherapy typically has curative outcomes in patients with low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). Although surgical intervention is a potential alternative, its efficacy in these patients remains unclear. This report describes a case in which surgical excision of a uterine polypoid lesion resolved chemotherapy-resistant low-risk GTN.

Case Report

A 43-year-old patient received pulse actinomycin D treatment for post-molar low-risk GTN without extrauterine metastasis. However, the patient showed resistance to the chemotherapy regimen. There was no initial evidence of protrusion of GTN into the uterine cavity; however, a polypoid lesion grew into the uterine cavity during therapy. This growth was successfully excised via a transvaginal approach using forceps with minimal blood loss. There was a postoperative decrease in human chorionic gonadotropin levels, which ultimately reached the predetermined threshold without the need for changing the therapeutic protocol.

Conclusion

Surgical resection should be considered a viable therapeutic strategy for uterine polypoid growth in chemotherapy-resistant low-risk GTN.

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia complicating methotrexate treatment in a patient with low-risk post-molar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia: A case report and review of the literature

Low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is generally treated with single agent chemotherapy, including methotrexate (MTX) or dactinomycin. We present a case of a patient with low-risk GTN who underwent single agent MTX therapy, developed Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP), recovered, and ultimately completed consolidation treatment for GTN on single agent MTX. While MTX administration is associated with an increased risk of PJP, this association is best described in rheumatology literature. This is the first case of PJP complicating MTX therapy within the gynecologic oncology literature.

Surgical Management of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease

BACKGROUND

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is a rare pregnancy-related condition consisting of premalignant and malignant forms arising from proliferation of trophoblastic cells. The malignant forms are collectively referred to as gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) and are highly sensitive to chemotherapy. However, surgical procedures remain indispensable in the diagnosis and treatment of GTD.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review was to summarize surgical interventions in the treatment of GTD and GTN. We reviewed indications, efficacy, possible complications, and oncological outcomes of surgery.

METHODS

Three searches were performed in the databases of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library to create an up-to-date overview of existing literature on the following subjects: (1) the role of primary hysterectomy in GTD and GTN; (2) the role of second curettage in GTD and GTN; (3) fertility sparing surgery in GTN; (4) surgical management of metastases. Included articles originated from the time period 1952-2022. Articles written in English, Spanish, and French were included.

OUTCOMES

Thirty-eight articles were found and selected. Surgical evacuation through suction curettage is most used and advised in the treatment of GTD. A second curettage could be beneficial in patients with low hCG levels and low FIGO scores. In women who have completed their families, primary hysterectomy might be considered as the risk of subsequent GTN is lower than after suction curettage. In case of the rare forms of GTN (epithelioid trophoblastic tumor or placental site trophoblastic tumor) surgical tumor resection remains the most important step in treatment. Data on fertility sparing surgery in GTN are scarce and this treatment should be considered experimental.

CONCLUSION AND OUTLOOK

Surgery remains an important part of treatment of GTD and is sometimes indispensable to achieve curation. Further collection of evidence is needed to determine treatment steps.

Efficacy and Safety of the Surgery-First Approach Compared to the Chemotherapy-First Approach for Treating Low-Risk Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

For gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) affecting women of reproductive age, the chemotherapy-first approach is often preferred over the surgery-first approach. Low-risk GTN is treated with a chemotherapy-first approach, but the number of courses required can affect fertility. A surgery-first approach may decrease the number of chemotherapy courses, but its efficacy and safety compared to a chemotherapy-first approach are unclear. Thus, we investigated the efficacy and safety of the surgery-first approach compared to the chemotherapy-first approach in treating low-risk GTN. We searched the MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform databases for relevant articles in July 2023. A systematic review and meta-analysis of outcome measures were conducted using a random-effects model. The primary outcomes were remission, the mean number of chemotherapy courses required to cure, and adverse events. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. This study protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/kysvn/). Studies for low-risk GTN included a qualitative synthesis (with 2,192 participants and ten studies, eight of which were about second uterine curettage and two about hysterectomy) and a meta-analysis (with 138 participants and two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared first-line treatments of second uterine curettage and chemotherapy). Second uterine curettage may result in little to no difference in remission (risk ratio: 1.00, 95% confidence interval: 0.96-1.05; low certainty) and a slight reduction in adverse events (risk ratio: 0.87, 95% confidence interval: 0.47-1.60; low certainty). The evidence is very uncertain on the mean number of chemotherapy courses (mean difference: 2.84 lower, 95% confidence interval: 7.31 lower to 1.63 higher; very low certainty). Based on clinical outcomes, second uterine curettage can be comparable to the chemotherapy-first approach as a first-line treatment option for low-risk GTN; however, the overall certainty of the evidence was low or very low.

Challenges in treatment of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia in patients with MTHFR mutation: A case report

•We present a case of a patient with post molar pregnancy who has a MTHFR C677T mutation.•The mutation led to an alteration of recommended chemotherapy regimen.•No studies have reported treatment recommendations pertaining to gyn malignancies in patients with MTHFR allele.•We present a novel instance where MTHFR mutation altered a patient's treatment for gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

Gestational trophoblastic disease: an update

Gestational trophoblastic diseases (GTD) encompass a spectrum of rare pre-malignant and malignant entities originating from trophoblastic tissue. This updated review will highlight important radiological features, pathology and classification, and provide insight into the clinical management of these uncommon disorders. There is a wide geographic variation with the incidence of hydatidiform mole varying between 0.57 and 2 per 1000 pregnancies. The use of ultrasound (US) in the management of early pregnancy symptoms and complications has positively impacted the earlier detection of these diseases and resulted in diminished morbidity. Additional imaging modalities are reserved for problem solving or assessment of pulmonary manifestations of molar pregnancy. Having an awareness of their pleomorphic sonographic presentation and additional pathology that can mimic GTD is critical to avoiding pitfalls. Histologic and molecular analysis further aids in differential diagnosis. Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is inclusive of all malignant GTDs, and arises after 20% of molar pregnancies but can also be seen with non-molar gestations. Biochemical monitoring with human chorionic gonadotrophin is imperative for ongoing monitoring and surveillance and allows early detection of this entity. Doppler US is used for confirmation of diagnosis with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reserved for problem solving or assessment of myometrial invasion. This is of heightened relevance in patients undergoing surgical management. Cross sectional imaging is reserved for patients in the setting of GTN for the purposes of staging, prognostication and in the setting of recurrent disease. This may require a combination of computed tomography, MRI and positron emission tomography. Doppler US can provide insight into chemotherapeutic response/predict resistance in patients with GTN. As our understanding of these disorders evolves, there has been maturation in management options with a shift from traditional chemotherapy to innovative immunotherapy, particularly in the setting of resistant or high-risk disease.

Current chemotherapeutic options for the treatment of gestational trophoblastic disease

INTRODUCTION

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is a rare tumor that arises from trophoblastic tissues with high remission rates after chemotherapy treatment. GTN can develop from any gestational events, such as miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and preterm/term pregnancy, but is more frequent after hydatidiform mole. The sensitivity of this tumor to chemotherapy and the presence of an exceptional tumor marker allow high remission rates, especially when patients are treated in referral centers.

AREAS COVERED

Observational, retrospective, prospective, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis studies focusing on GTN treatment. We searched PubMed, Medline, and the Library of Congress from January 1965 to May 2022.

EXPERT OPINION

Early GTN diagnosis allows low-toxic and highly effective treatment. Even multimetastatic disease has high rates of remission with multiagent regimen chemotherapy. Surgery is reserved for uterine disease in patients who have completed childbearing, in cases of chemoresistance to multiagent regimens or in the rare cases of placental site trophoblastic tumor or epithelioid trophoblastic tumor. While resistance is managed by salvage chemotherapy, cases with limited clinical response to sequential regimens have been successfully treated with immunotherapy.

Fertility‐sparing, surgical interventions for low‐risk, non‐metastatic gestational trophoblastic neoplasia

This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (intervention). The objectives are as follows:

To measure efficacy and safety of fertility‐sparing surgical interventions, with or without adjuvant chemotherapy, for the treatment of women with low‐risk, non‐metastatic gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (LR‐NMGTN). 

Bleeding from Gynecologic Malignancies

Initial assessment of vaginal bleeding in gynecologic malignancies includes a thorough history and physical examination, identification of site and extent of disease, and patient goals of care. Patients who are initially hemodynamically unstable may require critical care services. Choice of treatment is disease site specific. Cervical cancer frequently is treated with chemoradiation. Uterine cancer may be treated surgically, with radiation, or pharmacologically. Gestational trophoblastic disease is treated surgically. Alternative treatment modalities include vascular embolization and topical hemostatic agents. Patients with bleeding gynecologic malignancies should be managed as inpatients in facilities with gynecologic oncology, radiation oncology, and critical care services.

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasm in a patient with end-stage renal failure (ESRF): the challenges and lessons learnt

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasm (GTN) in end-stage renal failure (ESRF) has not been reported. We reported an unprecedented case of GTN in ESRF from an antecedent partial mole. She had total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingectomy following the diagnosis as the disease was confined to the uterus. A histopathological examination confirmed an invasive mole. Consequently, she received a total of four cycles of single-agent intravenous actinomycin D as she was at low risk. Despite initial response, her disease metastasised to her right kidney for which radiotherapy was given, followed by a total of 33 doses of weekly paclitaxel. She responded to the chemotherapy and currently remains in remission. The choice of chemotherapy and their side effects due to ESRF remain the main challenges in her management. Total hysterectomy should be considered as the first-line treatment for a hydatidiform mole to prevent GTN. A multidisciplinary approach is important to optimise the efficacy of the treatment with minimal compromise of her safety.

Guideline No. 408: Management of Gestational Trophoblastic Diseases

OBJECTIVE

This guideline reviews the clinical evaluation and management of gestational trophoblastic diseases, including surgical and medical management of benign, premalignant, and malignant entities. The objective of this guideline is to assist health care providers in promptly diagnosing gestational trophoblastic diseases, to standardize treatment and follow-up, and to ensure early specialized care of patients with malignant or metastatic disease.

INTENDED USERS

General gynaecologists, obstetricians, family physicians, midwives, emergency department physicians, anaesthesiologists, radiologists, pathologists, registered nurses, nurse practitioners, residents, gynaecologic oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, general practitioners in oncology, oncology nurses, pharmacists, physician assistants, and other health care providers who treat patients with gestational trophoblastic diseases. This guideline is also intended to provide information for interested parties who provide follow-up care for these patients following treatment.

TARGET POPULATION

Women of reproductive age with gestational trophoblastic diseases.

OPTIONS

Women diagnosed with a gestational trophoblastic disease should be referred to a gynaecologist for initial evaluation and consideration for primary surgery (uterine evacuation or hysterectomy) and follow-up. Women diagnosed with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia should be referred to a gynaecologic oncologist for staging, risk scoring, and consideration for primary surgery or systemic therapy (single- or multi-agent chemotherapy) with the potential need for additional therapies. All cases of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia should be discussed at a multidisciplinary cancer case conference and registered in a centralized (regional and/or national) database.

EVIDENCE

Relevant studies from 2002 onwards were searched in Embase, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Cochrane Systematic Reviews using the following terms, either alone or in combination: trophoblastic neoplasms, choriocarcinoma, trophoblastic tumor, placental site, gestational trophoblastic disease, hydatidiform mole, drug therapy, surgical therapy, radiotherapy, cure, complications, recurrence, survival, prognosis, pregnancy outcome, disease outcome, treatment outcome, and remission. The initial search was performed in April 2017 and updated in May 2019. Relevant evidence was selected for inclusion in the following order: meta-analyses, systematic reviews, guidelines, randomized controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, observational studies, non-systematic reviews, case series, and reports. Additional significant articles were identified through cross-referencing the identified reviews. The total number of studies identified was 673, with 79 studies cited in this review.

VALIDATION METHODS

The content and recommendations were drafted and agreed upon by the authors. The Executive and Board of Directors of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada reviewed the content and submitted comments for consideration, and the Board of Directors for the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada approved the final draft for publication. The quality of evidence was rated using the criteria described in the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology framework. See the online appendix tables for key to grading and interpretation of recommendations.

BENEFITS

These guidelines will assist physicians in promptly diagnosing gestational trophoblastic diseases and urgently referring patients diagnosed with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia to gynaecologic oncology for specialized management. Treating gestational trophoblastic neoplasia in specialized centres with the use of centralized databases allows for capturing and comparing data on treatment outcomes of patients with these rare tumours and for optimizing patient care.

SUMMARY STATEMENTS (GRADE RATINGS IN PARENTHESES)

RECOMMENDATIONS (GRADE RATINGS IN PARENTHESES).

Fertility and pregnancy outcome in gestational trophoblastic disease

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of existing literature and current knowledge on fertility rates and reproductive outcomes after gestational trophoblastic disease. A systematic literature search was performed to retrieve all available studies on fertility rates and reproductive outcomes after hydatidiform mole pregnancy, low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, high- and ultra-high-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, and the rare placental site trophoblastic tumor and epithelioid trophoblastic tumor forms of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. The effects of single-agent chemotherapy, multi-agent including high-dose chemotherapy, and immunotherapy on fertility, pregnancy wish, and pregnancy outcomes were evaluated and summarized. After treatment for gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, most, but not all, women want to achieve another pregnancy. Age and extent of therapy determine if there is a risk of loss of fertility. Single-agent treatment does not affect fertility and subsequent pregnancy outcome. Miscarriage occurs more often in women who conceive within 6 months of follow-up after chemotherapy. Multi-agent chemotherapy hastens the natural menopause by three years and commonly induces a temporary amenorrhea, but in young women rarely causes permanent ovarian failure or infertility. Subsequent pregnancies have a high chance of ending with live healthy babies. In contrast, high-dose chemotherapy typically induces permanent amenorrhea, and no pregnancies have been reported after high-dose chemotherapy for gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. Immunotherapy is promising and may give better outcomes than multiple schedules of chemotherapy or even high-dose chemotherapy. The first pregnancy after immunotherapy has recently been described. Data on fertility-sparing treatment in placental site trophoblastic tumor and epithelioid trophoblastic tumor are still scarce, and this option should be offered with caution. In general, patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia may be reassured about their future fertility and pregnancy outcome. Detailed registration of high-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia is still indispensable to obtain more complete data to better inform patients in the future.

Gestational Trophoblastic Disease: Current Evaluation and Management

This review summarizes the current evaluation and management of gestational trophoblastic disease, including evacuation of hydatidiform moles, surveillance after evacuation of hydatidiform mole and the diagnosis and management of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. Most women with gestational trophoblastic disease can be successfully managed with preservation of reproductive function. It is important to manage molar pregnancies properly to minimize acute complications and to identify gestational trophoblastic neoplasia promptly. Current International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics guidelines for making the diagnosis and staging of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia allow uniformity for reporting results of treatment. It is important to individualize treatment based on their risk factors, using less toxic therapy for patients with low-risk disease and aggressive multiagent therapy for patients with high-risk disease. Patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia should be managed in consultation with an individual experienced in the complex, multimodality treatment of these patients.

Directive clinique no 408 : Prise en charge des maladies gestationnelles trophoblastiques

OBJECTIF

Cette directive passe en revue l'évaluation clinique et la prise en charge des maladies gestationnelles trophoblastiques, notamment les traitements chirurgicaux et médicamenteux des tumeurs bénignes, prémalignes et malignes. L'objectif de la présente directive clinique est d'aider les fournisseurs de soins de santé à rapidement diagnostiquer les maladies gestationnelles trophoblastiques, à normaliser les traitements et le suivi et à assurer des soins spécialisés précoces aux patientes dont l'atteinte est maligne ou métastatique. PROFESSIONNELS CONCERNéS: Gynécologues généralistes, obstétriciens, médecins de famille, sages-femmes, urgentologues, anesthésistes, radiologistes, anatomopathologistes, infirmières autorisées, infirmières praticiennes, résidents, gynécologues-oncologues, oncologues médicaux, radio-oncologues, chirurgiens, omnipraticiens en oncologie, infirmières en oncologie, pharmaciens, auxiliaires médicaux et autres professionnels de la santé qui traitent des patientes atteintes d'une maladie gestationnelle trophoblastique. La présente directive vise également à fournir des renseignements aux parties intéressées qui prodiguent des soins de suivi à ces patientes après le traitement.

POPULATION CIBLE

Femmes en âge de procréer atteintes d'une maladie gestationnelle trophoblastique.

OPTIONS

Les femmes ayant reçu un diagnostic de maladie gestationnelle trophoblastique doivent être orientées vers un gynécologue afin qu'il réalise une évaluation initiale, envisage une intervention chirurgicale primaire (évacuation ou hystérectomie) et effectue un suivi. Il y a lieu d'orienter les femmes ayant reçu un diagnostic de tumeur trophoblastique gestationnelle vers un gynécologue-oncologue afin qu'il effectue la stadification tumorale, établisse le score de risque et envisage l'intervention chirurgicale primaire ou un traitement systémique (mono- ou polychimiothérapie) et la nécessité d'éventuels traitements supplémentaires. Il est recommandé de discuter de chaque cas de néoplasie gestationnelle trophoblastique lors d'une réunion multidisciplinaire de cas oncologiques et de l'inscrire dans une base de données centralisée (régionale et/ou nationale). DONNéES PROBANTES: Des recherches ont été effectuées au moyen des bases de données Embase et MEDLINE, du Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials et de la Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews afin de trouver les études publiées depuis 2002 utilisant un ou plusieurs des mots clés suivants : trophoblastic neoplasms, choriocarcinoma, trophoblastic tumor, placental site, gestational trophoblastic disease, hydatidiform mole, drug therapy, surgical therapy, radiotherapy, cure, complications, recurrence, survival, prognosis, pregnancy outcome, disease outcome, treatment outcome et remission. La recherche initiale a été effectuée en avril 2017; une mise à jour a été faite en mai 2019. Les données probantes pertinentes ont été sélectionnées aux fins d'inclusion selon l'ordre suivant : méta-analyses, revues systématiques, directives cliniques, essais cliniques randomisés, études de cohortes prospectives, études observationnelles, revues non systématiques, études de séries de cas et rapports. D'autres articles pertinents ont été trouvés en recoupant les revues répertoriées. Le nombre total d'études relevées était de 673, dont 79 études sont citées dans la présente revue. MéTHODES DE VALIDATION: Le contenu et les recommandations ont été rédigés et acceptés par les auteurs. La direction et le conseil d'administration de la Société de gynéco-oncologie du Canada ont passé en revue le contenu de la version préliminaire et ont soumis des commentaires à prendre en considération. Le conseil d'administration de la Société des obstétriciens et gynécologues du Canada a approuvé la version définitive aux fins de publication. La qualité des données probantes a été évaluée au moyen des critères de l'approche GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation). Consulter les tableaux dans l'annexe en ligne pour connaître les critères de notation et d'interprétation des recommandations. BéNéFICES, RISQUES, COûTS: Les présentes recommandations aideront les médecins à diagnostiquer rapidement les maladies gestationnelles trophoblastiques et à orienter de façon urgente les patientes ayant reçu un diagnostic de maladie gestationnelle trophoblastique en gynécologie oncologique pour une prise en charge spécialisée. Le traitement des néoplasies gestationnelles trophoblastiques en centre spécialisé combiné à l'utilisation de bases de données centralisées permet de recueillir et de comparer des données sur les résultats thérapeutiques des patientes atteintes de ces tumeurs rares et d'optimiser les soins aux patientes. DÉCLARATIONS SOMMAIRES (CLASSEMENT GRADE ENTRE PARENTHèSES): RECOMMANDATIONS (CLASSEMENT GRADE ENTRE PARENTHèSES).

Curative effect of second curettage for treatment of gestational trophoblastic disease - Results of the Belgian registry for gestational trophoblastic disease

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the curative effect of a second curettage in patients with persistent hCG serum levels after first curettage for a gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD).

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective observational study used the data of the Belgian register for GTD between July 2012 and January 2017. We analysed the data of patients who underwent a second curettage. We included 313 patients in the database. Primary endpoints were need for second curettage and chemotherapy.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients of the study population (12 %) underwent a second curettage. 20 had persistent human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG) elevation before second curettage. Of them, 9 patients (45 %) needed no further treatment afterwards. Eleven patients (55 %) needed further chemotherapy. Nine (82 %) were cured with single-agent chemotherapy and 2 patients (18 %) needed multi-agent chemotherapy. Of the 37 patients, patients with hCG levels below 5000 IU/L undergoing a second curettage were cured without chemotherapy in 65 % versus 45 % of patients with hCG level more than 5000 IU/L. Of the ten patients with a hCG level below 1000 IU/L, eight were cured without chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with post-mole gestational trophoblastic neoplasia can benefit from a second curettage to avoid chemotherapy, especially when the hCG level is lower than 5000 IU/L.

Surgery including fertility-sparing treatment of GTD

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) consists of a spectrum of diseases, including hydatidiform moles, invasive mole, metastatic mole, choriocarcinoma, placental site trophoblastic tumour (PSTT) and epithelioid trophoblastic tumour (ETT). GTD is a relatively uncommon disease occurring in women of reproductive age, with high cure rates. Primary treatment of hydatidiform moles includes uterine evacuation, followed by close monitoring of serial hCG levels to detect for post-molar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). In patients with GTN, the main therapy consists of chemotherapy, although some surgical procedures are important in selected patients to achieve curing. Hysterectomy is the mainstay treatment for PSTT or ETT and may be considered in selected patients for management of hydatidiform mole and malignant GTN especially in chemoresistant disease. Resection of metastatic lesions such as in the lung or brain can be considered in selected patients with isolated chemoresistant tumour. Surgical treatment of GTD will be discussed in this chapter.

Anti-cancer therapy and clinical trial considerations for gynecologic oncology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis

OBJECTIVES

The COVID-19 pandemic has consumed considerable resources and has impacted the delivery of cancer care. Patients with cancer may have factors which place them at high risk for COVID 19 morbidity or mortality. Highly immunosuppressive chemotherapy regimens and possible exposure to COVID-19 during treatment may put patients at additional risk. The Society of Gynecologic Oncology convened an expert panel to address recommendations for best practices during this crisis to minimize risk to patients from deviations in cancer care and from COVID-19 morbidity.

METHODS

An expert panel convened to develop initial consensus guidelines regarding anti-neoplastic therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic with respect to gynecologic cancer care and clinical trials.

RESULTS

COVID-19 poses special risks to patients who are older, have medical co-morbidities, and cancer. In addition, this pandemic will likely strain resources, making delivery of cancer care or conduct of clinical trials unpredictable. Recommendations are to limit visits and contact with health care facilities by using telemedicine when appropriate, and choosing regimens which require less frequent visits and which are less immunosuppressive. Deviations will occur in clinical trials as a result of limited resources, and it is important to understand regulatory obligations to trial sponsors as well as to the IRB to ensure that clinical trial and patient safety oversight are maintained.

CONCLUSIONS

The ongoing crisis will strain resources needed to deliver cancer care. When alterations to the delivery of care are mandated, efforts should be taken to minimize risks and maximize safety while approximating standard practice.

Cost-effectiveness of second curettage for treatment of low-risk non-metastatic gestational trophoblastic neoplasia

OBJECTIVE

Low-risk non-metastatic gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) has been treated with single agent chemotherapy, but second curettage is emerging as an alternative strategy with reported cure rates of 40%. We sought to estimate the cost-effectiveness of second curettage as the first line treatment of low-risk GTN.

METHODS

A decision-analytic model was created using TreeAge software to compare costs and outcomes for women with WHO staged low-risk GTN undergoing treatment with 5-day methotrexate (MTX), biweekly pulsed actinomycin-D, or second curettage. Probabilities were derived from the literature. Outcomes of interest included side effects from chemotherapy, need for additional agents, hemorrhage, uterine perforation, and cure rates. Utilities were applied to discounted life expectancy at a rate of 3% to generate quality adjusted life years (QALYs). Sensitivity analyses were then performed in order to assess the robustness of our assumptions.

RESULTS

Of the three treatment arms, MTX was associated with the lowest cost and had similar QALYs to the other studied modalities. Second curettage was associated with 49 additional cures when applied to a theoretic cohort of 1000 women, as well as an additional 83 hemorrhages and 17 uterine perforations. Sensitivity analysis on the cure rate of second curettage revealed that second curettage was not cost-effective over MTX unless its probability of cure was 98%.

CONCLUSION

Our study found 5-day MTX was the cost-effective strategy for treatment of women with low-risk, non-metastatic GTN when compared to second curettage and actinomycin-D. In a carefully selected patient population, second curettage may be an additional treatment strategy.

Practical clinical guidelines of the EOTTD for treatment and referral of gestational trophoblastic disease

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterised by abnormal proliferation of trophoblastic tissue. Since GTD and its malignant sequel gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) are rare diseases, little evidence is available from randomised controlled trials on optimal treatment and follow-up. Treatment protocols vary within Europe, and even between different centres within countries. One of the goals of the 'European Organisation for Treatment of Trophoblastic Diseases' (EOTTD) is to harmonise treatment in Europe. To provide a basis for European standardisation of definitions, treatment and follow-up protocols in GTD, we composed a set of guidelines for minimal requirements and optimal management of GTD.

METHODS

Members from each EOTTD country attended multiple workshops during annual EOTTD meetings. Clinical guidelines were formulated by consensus and evidence where available. The following guidelines were discussed: diagnostics of GTD and GTN, treatment of low-risk GTN, high-risk GTN, ultra-high-risk GTN, placental site and epithelioid trophoblastic tumours and follow-up.

RESULTS

Between 40 and 65 EOTTD members from 17 European countries and 7 non-European countries attended the clinical workshops held on 6 occasions. Flow diagrams for patient management were composed to display minimum and best practice for most treatment situations. New agreed definitions of recurrence and chemotherapy resistance were formulated.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the many differences between and within the participating countries, an important step in uniform treatment of GTD and GTN within Europe was made by the Clinical Working Party of the EOTTD. This is an example on how guidelines and harmonisation can be achieved within international networks.

Evaluation of a routine second curettage for hydatidiform mole: a cohort study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate routine second curettage for hydatidiform mole (HM) by comparing the characteristics and outcomes of developing gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN).

STUDY DESIGN

This was a cohort study including 173 patients diagnosed with HM between January 2002 and August 2019 who were followed up at Nagoya University Hospital, Japan. After an evacuation, 105 and 68 patients were managed with the routine method (routine group) and elective method (elective group) for a second curettage, respectively. The routine second curettage was performed around 7 days after the first evacuation. Patients in the elective group underwent a second curettage if there was ultrasonographic evidence of molar remnants in the uterine cavity. Socio-clinical factors were retrospectively compared between the routine and elective groups, and between patients showing regression and those who developed GTN.

RESULTS

The incidence of GTN was 15.2% in the routine group and 20.6% in the elective group, and the difference was not significant (P = 0.364). The median GTN risk score was significantly higher in the routine group than in the elective group (P = 0.033). Presence of a complete HM, gestational age, and a pre-treatment human chorionic gonadotropin level of ≥ 200,000 mIU/mL were independent risk factors for GTN in molar patients.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of GTN was unchanged but the risk score of GTN was higher in the routine group than in the elective group. Routine second curettage may not be necessary, but further study will be needed to confirm this.

A review on management of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia

BACKGROUND

The rare presence of malignant cancerous cells afar any type of pregnancy is known as gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). GTN are benign lesions which mostly happen due to the activity of extravillous trophoblast cells and the placental villous tree development. These kinds of diseases would be occurring mainly due to the following clinicopathologic conditions: (I) existence of epithelioid trophoblastic tumor (ETT), (II) rare type of choriocarcinoma cancer, (III) gestational trophoblastic tumor of mole, and (IV) the rare malignant tumor of placental site trophoblastic tumor.

OBJECTIVE

This comprehensive study is trying to review the most recent approaches in comprehension of pathogenesis, more precise diagnosis, and also the most effective therapeutic procedures for patients who suffer from GTN disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

A comprehensive research was carried out on scientific databases of Science Citation Index (SCI), MEDLINE, EMBASE, HMIC, PubMed, CINAHL, Google Scholar, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), and PsycINFO over the time period of 2005 to 2019. The keywords which applied for discovering more related records were including: Gestational trophoblastic diseases (GTD), Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), molar pregnancy, choriocarcinoma, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), diagnosis, management and treatment.

CONCLUSION

In spite of the fact that GTN patients are treated with conventional surgical therapies or/and chemotherapy, in some patients with resistant disease, these therapies may not be effective and patients may die. Some novel remedial agents are required for decreasing the level of toxicity caused through administering conventional chemotherapy and also treating the patients who suffer from refractory or resistant disease. The newest issues are related to GTN diagnosis, process of progression of hydatidiform mole (HM) to GTN, and the issue of GTN drug resistance. In this regard, we should have a comprehensive knowledge on GTN genetics for answering all the available questions about this disorder.

Second Uterine Curettage and the Number of Chemotherapy Courses in Postmolar Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of second uterine curettage on the number of chemotherapy courses and relapse rate in low-risk postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

METHODS

In a phase III trial, patients with low risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia were randomised (1:1) to a second curettage or no curettage group before methotrexate treatment. Eligibility criteria were serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level 5,000 international units/L or less and fit for treatment with methotrexate. Exclusion criteria were previous uterine perforation and life-threatening bleeding. With a two-sided 5% significance level and a power of 99%, a sample size of 44 patients per group was necessary to detect a mean reduction in 2.3 chemotherapy courses. The primary outcome was the number of chemotherapy courses required for hCG normalization. Secondary outcomes were needed for second-line treatment, toxicity, relapse rates, and variables associated with number of chemotherapy courses.

RESULTS

From October 2011 through February 2016, 89 patients entered the study at the Mansoura Trophoblastic Clinic; in each group, 43 patients were included in the intention-to-treat analyses. Surgical complications did not occur. The mean number of chemotherapy courses required to reach hCG normalization was 4.4±2.2 SD in the control group vs 3.8±2.3 SD in the intervention group (P=.14). Groups were comparable in terms of second-line treatment needed to reach hCG normalization, and relapse within the first year. Only hCG levels related to the number of chemotherapy cycles required for hCG normalization.

CONCLUSION

Second uterine curettage did not reduce the number of chemotherapy courses required or affect relapse rate in patients with low-risk postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

Dutch Trial Registry, NTR3390.

Conservative management of uterine rupture in gestational trophoblastic neoplasia

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Uterine artery embolization as management of uterine rupture due to invasive GTN.

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Fertility preservation for select cases of uterine rupture due to invasive GTN.

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Conservative surgery and chemotherapy for invasive GTN with uterine rupture.

Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia, Version 2.2019, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), a subset of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), occurs when tumors develop in the cells that would normally form the placenta during pregnancy. The NCCN Guidelines for Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia provides treatment recommendations for various types of GTD including hydatidiform mole, persistent post-molar GTN, low-risk GTN, high-risk GTN, and intermediate trophoblastic tumor.

Understanding and management of gestational trophoblastic disease

Gestational trophoblastic disease or neoplasia covers a spectrum of benign and malignant conditions arising from pregnancies with highly abnormal development of trophoblastic tissue. In this brief review, we discuss the different features of these different conditions and their origins and risk factors and introduce some of the more novel and controversial treatment options currently being explored.

Challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia worldwide

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is a rare tumor that originates from pregnancy that includes invasive mole, choriocarcinoma (CCA), placental site trophoblastic tumor and epithelioid trophoblastic tumor (PSTT/ETT). GTN presents different degrees of proliferation, invasion and dissemination, but, if treated in reference centers, has high cure rates, even in multi-metastatic cases. The diagnosis of GTN following a hydatidiform molar pregnancy is made according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) 2000 criteria: four or more plateaued human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) concentrations over three weeks; rise in hCG for three consecutive weekly measurements over at least a period of 2 weeks or more; and an elevated but falling hCG concentrations six or more months after molar evacuation. However, the latter reason for treatment is no longer used by many centers. In addition, GTN is diagnosed with a pathological diagnosis of CCA or PSTT/ETT. For staging after a molar pregnancy, FIGO recommends pelvic-transvaginal Doppler ultrasound and chest X-ray. In cases of pulmonary metastases with more than 1 cm, the screening should be complemented with chest computed tomography and brain magnetic resonance image. Single agent chemotherapy, usually Methotrexate (MTX) or Actinomycin-D (Act-D), can cure about 70% of patients with FIGO/World Health Organization (WHO) prognosis risk score ≤ 6 (low risk), reserving multiple agent chemotherapy, such as EMA/CO (Etoposide, MTX, Act-D, Cyclophosphamide and Oncovin) for cases with FIGO/WHO prognosis risk score ≥ 7 (high risk) that is often metastatic. Best overall cure rates for low and high risk disease is close to 100% and > 95%, respectively. The management of PSTT/ETT differs and cure rates tend to be a bit lower. The early diagnosis of this disease and the appropriate treatment avoid maternal death, allow the healing and maintenance of the reproductive potential of these women.

Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia From Genetically Confirmed Hydatidiform Moles: Prospective Observational Cohort Study

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and risk factors of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) from hydatidiform moles (HMs) cytogenetically diagnosed in a prospective cohort setting.

Methods

The prospective observational cohort study included cases of cytogenetically defined molar pregnancies, which were diagnosed by a multiplex short tandem repeat polymorphism analysis. Cases were classified as androgenetic complete HMs (CHMs), diandric monogynic triploid partial HMs (PHMs), or biparental abortion. Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia was diagnosed according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics 2000 criteria. Incidences for each category, that is, CHM, PHMs, and biparental abortion, were calculated. Clinical variables (age, partner age, gravidity, parity, height, weight, BMI, and gestational age) and laboratory data (serum human chorionic gonadotropin [hCG], white blood cell count, hemoglobin, and platelet count) were compared between spontaneous remission cases and GTN cases in androgenetic CHMs.

Results

Among 401 cases, 380 were classified as follows: 232 androgenetic CHMs, 60 diandric monogynic PHMs, and 88 biparental abortions. A total of 35 cases (15.1%) of CHMs, but only 1 case of PHM (1.7%) and no biparental abortions, exhibited progression to GTN. The hCG value before evacuation was significantly higher in GTN cases than in spontaneous remission cases (P = 0.001, Kruskal-Wallis test). Patient age was also significantly higher in GTN cases than in spontaneous remission cases (P = 0.002, Student t test).

Conclusions

Under the cohort cytogenetic diagnosis setting, the traditional risk factors for GTN after molar pregnancy, hCG value before evacuation and age, were confirmed in androgenetic CHMs. The risk of GTN was lower for PHMs than for CHMs. However, 1 patient with cytogenetic PHMs developed into GTN.

A pilot randomized controlled clinical trial of second uterine curettage versus usual care to determine the effect of re-curettage on patients' need for chemotherapy among women with low risk, nonmetastatic gestational trophoblastic neoplasm in Urmia, Iran

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine if second curettage was associated with a decreased need for the number of chemotherapy treatments compared to usual care.

Methods

A pilot randomized controlled clinical trial was designed at Motahhari Referral Hospital in 2014. Fifty-two patients with low risk, nonmetastatic gestational trophoblastic neoplasm were assigned randomly to two arms. The interventional arm included a repeat uterine curettage, and the control group received standard care (chemotherapy). All participants were followed periodically over 6 months. Primary outcome was defined as the number of chemotherapy courses in each arm. Student’s t-test and receiver operator characteristics (ROC) curve were applied for statistical analysis as appropriate.

Results

Fifty percent of participants who underwent re-curettage did respond to intervention with no further chemotherapy after 6 months of follow-up. The intervention arm had higher number of remissions without chemotherapy compared to those who received usual care. In the subgroup analysis, the ROC curve could predict the re-curettage treatment response by beta human chorionic gonadotropin (BhCG) level significantly. No complications were reported in the intervention arm.

Conclusion

Second curettage is an alternative effective procedure to decrease the need for chemotherapy among patients with low risk, nonmetastatic gestational trophoblastic neoplasm. Further clinical trials with larger sample size may be needed to determine the effective role of second curettage among patients.

Incidental Finding of Persistent Hydatidiform Mole in an Adolescent on Depo-Provera

Molar pregnancies represent an uncommon yet important obstetric problem with potentially fatal outcomes. Patients typically present with signs and symptoms of early pregnancy, and physicians most often suspect nonmolar pregnancy complications initially; however a hydatidiform mole should be included in the differential diagnosis of a woman with a positive pregnancy test and abnormal vaginal bleeding irrespective of the use of contraception. Our case is that of an adolescent female on Depo-Provera injectable contraceptive with increased vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting who was incidentally found to be pregnant and subsequently diagnosed with a molar pregnancy despite persistent denial of having initiated sexual intercourse. Though gestational trophoblastic disease is uncommon with an incidence of about 1-2 cases per 1,000 pregnancies, a clinician has to display a high index of suspicion when dealing with patients at extremes of age in order to avoid potentially life-threatening outcomes.