Hydatidiform mole typically presents with which uterine finding?

Hydatidiform mole typically presents with which uterine finding?

• A. Uterus larger than expected
• B. Uterus smaller than expected
• C. Normal uterine size for gestational age
• D. Uterus with significant tenderness only

Answer: (A)

Hydatidiform mole causes rapid, abnormal proliferation of trophoblastic tissue and vesicle formation in the uterus, so the uterus grows more than would be expected for the gestational age. Clinically, this shows up as a fundal height that is larger than dates for the pregnancy, since there isn’t a developing fetus contributing to the size. This enlargement is a classic clue, often accompanied by very high hCG levels and related symptoms, and it helps distinguish mole from normal pregnancy or other conditions. A uterus smaller than expected would point toward fetal demise or growth restriction, a normal size uterus fits a typical pregnancy, and tenderness alone isn’t specific to a mole.

Hydatidiform mole causes rapid, abnormal proliferation of trophoblastic tissue and vesicle formation in the uterus, so the uterus grows more than would be expected for the gestational age. Clinically, this shows up as a fundal height that is larger than dates for the pregnancy, since there isn’t a developing fetus contributing to the size. This enlargement is a classic clue, often accompanied by very high hCG levels and related symptoms, and it helps distinguish mole from normal pregnancy or other conditions. A uterus smaller than expected would point toward fetal demise or growth restriction, a normal size uterus fits a typical pregnancy, and tenderness alone isn’t specific to a mole.