Utility of diagnostic imaging in the staging of gestational trophoblastic disease

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is a group of tumors with a cure rate of 90-100% with appropriate treatment. The patients with a poor prognosis have metastatic disease involving structures other than the pelvic organs or the lungs. The medical records of 70 patients with histologically proven GTD were reviewed to determine the usefulness of diagnostic imaging modalities in the staging and follow-up of GTD. The level of chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is more sensitive in determining the persistence of disease or its response to therapy, but is of little use in evaluating the site of metastases. Diagnostic imaging modalities are most useful in determining the presence and sites of metastases so that appropriate treatment is instituted.