Hydatidiform mole

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Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)

Uterus

A hydatidiform mole is a rare mass or growth that forms inside the uterus at the beginning of a pregnancy.

See also: Choriocarcinoma

Hydatid mole; Molar pregnancy

A hydatidiform mole results from over-production of the tissue that is supposed to develop into the placenta. The placenta normally feeds a fetus during pregnancy. In this condition, the tissues develop into an abnormal growth, called a mass. Often, there is no fetus at all.

The cause is not completely understood. Potential causes may include defects in the egg, problems within the uterus, or nutritional deficiencies. Women under 20 or over 40 years of age have a higher risk. Other risk factors may include diets low in protein, folic acid, and carotene.

Review Date: 11/17/2006
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.