title: Epidemiology of gestational trophoblastic diseases.
abstract: The epidemiology of gestational trophoblastic diseases is unclear. Problems with collection and interpretation of differing data abound. Hydatidiform mole (HM) is associated with abnormal gametogenesis and/or fertilization. This is further influenced by age, ethnicity and a prior history of an HM suggesting a genetic basis for its aetiology. Whilst a prior HM is significant in the development of trophoblastic neoplasia there is no clear explanation for the development of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia in association with a normal gestation. The development and improvements in suction curettage, termination of pregnancy, contraceptive techniques, diagnostic imaging and biochemical testing have been associated not only with a fall in the birth rate, but also with a reduction in the incidence of trophoblastic diseases. Future study should examine the mechanism of malignant change in normal and abnormal trophoblast.
authors: Trophoblastic Disease Referral Unit, Royal Hospital for Women, Barker Street, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia. steigrads@sesahs.nsw.gov.au
authors: Stephen James
authors: SJ
authors: Steigrad
mesh_terms: D000028:Abortion, Induced; D003267:Contraception; D004032:Diet; D005006:Ethnicity; D005260:Female; D031901:Gestational Trophoblastic Disease / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D006828:Hydatidiform Mole / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics; D015994:Incidence; D008423:Maternal Age; D011247:Pregnancy; D012307:Risk Factors; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics