This is a partial mole that occurs when two sperms fertilize a single ovum. The result is triploidy (69 XXY). Only some of the villi are grape- like, and a fetus can be present, but rarely survives past 15 weeks.
Partial hydatidiform mole
Here is another partial mole in a case of triploidy. Note the scattered grape-like masses with intervening normal-appearing placental tissue.
Partial hydatidiform mole
Partial mole with attached fetus. The diagnosis was confirmed by biopsy and flow cytometry. The fetus showed no abnormality and was connected to the mole by a normal umbilical cord.
Partial Hydatidiform mole
Gross appearance of partial mole. The hydropic degeneration of the villi is not as pronounced as in the classical complete mole.
In partial moles, some villi (as seen here at the lower left) appear normal, whereas others are swollen. There is minimal trophoblastic proliferation.
Partial hydatidiform mole
Partial mole showing scalloping of villi and isolated trophoblastic cells embedded in the stroma.
Partial hydatidiform mole