Hydatidiform mole occurs when trophoblast develop abnormally. True or false?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only in twin gestations
• D. Only with chromosomal abnormalities

Answer: (A)

Hydatidiform mole is a gestational trophoblastic disease caused by abnormal development of the placental trophoblast. When fertilization goes awry, the trophoblast proliferates in an unregulated way and the chorionic villi become edematous, producing the characteristic grape-like vesicles of molar tissue. This abnormal trophoblastic growth is the defining feature, so the statement is true. There are two main forms—complete mole (no fetus, usually all paternal genetic material) and partial mole (fetus present with triploidy). The condition can occur in singleton or twin gestations and is not limited to chromosomal abnormalities, even though chromosomal issues are involved in its pathogenesis.