Female Genital System

This is only a second trimester pregnancy, but note how large for dates the uterus is because of a molar pregnancy. An ultrasound in this case revealed no fetus, only a "snowstorm" effect.
Complete hydatidiform mole

A mass of tissue with grape-like swollen villi.

Complete hydatidiform mole


The grape-like villi of a hydatidiform mole are seen here suspended in saline. With molar pregnancy, the uterus is large for dates, but no fetus is present. HCG levels are markedly elevated. Patients with a hydatidiform mole are often large for dates and have hyperemesis gravidarum more frequently. Patients may present with bleeding, and may pass some of the grape-like villi.
Complete hydatidiform mole


Histologically, the hydatidiform mole has large avascular villi and areas of trophoblastic proliferation. Of course, ultrasound confirms the diagnosis before currettage is done to evacuate this tissue seen here.
Complete hydatidiform mole


Complete mole showing large villi with stromal edema and marked trophoblastic proliferation.
Complete hydatidiform mole