Subinvolution of the placental bed after molar pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the occurrence of subinvolution of the placental bed following molar pregnancy.

STUDY DESIGN

A review of archival histology and clinical charts.

RESULTS

Four cases of subinvolution of the placental bed after a molar pregnancy were found in an institutional review; three were preceded by a complete mole and one by a partial mole. In all four cases the arteries were widely distended and mainly devoid of thrombus formation. Plentiful persistent interstitial trophoblast was seen within the decidua and myometrium, and endovascular trophoblast was seen embedded within the arterial walls in all four and intraluminally in two of the cases.

CONCLUSION

The condition may be underdiagnosed after molar pregnancy and is a likely cause of continued bleeding following evacuation of the hydatidiform mole.