How is gestational trophoblastic disease treated?

The first part of this section describes the various types of treatments used for gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). This information is followed by a description of the most common approaches used to treat these cancers based on the type and classification of GTD.

Making treatment decisions

After GTD is diagnosed and staged, your medical team can recommend one or more treatment options. Choosing a treatment plan is an important decision, so be sure to take time and think about all of the choices.

No matter what type or stage of GTD a woman has, treatment is available. Your treatment choice depends on many factors. The location and the extent of the disease are very important. Other important factors include the type of GTD present, the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), duration of the disease, sites of metastasis if any, and the extent of prior treatment. In selecting a treatment plan, you and your medical team will also consider your age, general state of health, and personal preferences.

It is important to begin treatment as soon as possible after GTD has been detected. The main methods of treatment are:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy (which is used less often)

Sometimes the best approach combines 2 or more of these methods.