Signs and Symptoms of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease

Gestational Trophoblastic Disease, also known as GTD, is a cancerous growth that appears in the lining of the uterus either immediately before, during or after a pregnancy. According to the American Cancer Society, the condition is most commonly diagnosed using blood tests and imaging equipment, such as a CT scan, an X-ray or an MRI. KnowCancer.com states that the most common form of treatment is chemotherapy and, if necessary, radiation treatment. In advanced cases, a hysterectomy, or removal of the uterus, may be necessary.

Abdominal Swelling

• As the condition begins to develop, abnormal abdominal swelling, during the early stages of pregnancy, may occur. The swollen area may initially be soft to the touch and could become painful.

Bleeding

• The American Cancer Society notes that GTD will often produce vaginal bleeding during the first three months of pregnancy. In some cases, the bleeding may be accompanied by blood clots or a brown discharge.

Anemia

• Anemia occurs when there is an abnormally low red blood cell count in the body. As bleeding due to GTD continues, it can produce anemia in patients. When the body's organs do not get enough red blood cells, they lack oxygen and cannot function properly. Some of the more common symptoms of anemia are shortness of breath, chest pain and fatigue.

Fetal Movement

• Prenatal examinations are done for many reasons. One reason is to determine if the fetus is moving properly within the womb. If GTD is developing, the fetus will be unable to move in the womb properly which can cause developmental problems.

Hypertension

• Because the blood flow is affected by the development of a GTD tumor, hypertension or high blood pressure can develop in patients.