Neurosurgery notes/Tumours/Germ cell tumours/Non germinomas/Choriocarcinoma

Choriocarcinoma

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Status
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Parent item
Non germinomas

Definition

  • Composed of syncytiotrophoblasts, cytotrophoblasts, and occasionally intermediate trophoblasts.

Frequency

  • 2%

Histopathology

  • Macroscopic
    • Solid
    • Haemorrhagic common
    • Necrosis common
  • Microscopic
      • Presence of both cytotrophoblastic elements and syncytiotrophoblastic giant cells.
        • Contains multiple hyperchromatic or vesicular nuclei
      • Ectatic vascular channels, blood lakes, and extensive haemorrhagic necrosis are characteristic
      Choriocarcinoma with syncytiotrophoblastic giant cells and cytotrophoblasts.
      Choriocarcinoma with syncytiotrophoblastic giant cells and cytotrophoblasts.

Immunophenotype

  • +
    • Consistent
      • Beta-hCG
      • Human placental lactogen
      • Cytokeratin
    • Inconsistent
      • PLAP
  • -
    • KIT
    • OCT4

Blood markers

  • Beta-hCG

Notes

  • High hCG in CSF and blood
  • Molar pregnancy can result when one sperm enters a genetically empty egg (Complete Molar) or two sperm enters a normal egg (incomplete molar). The abnormal egg can grow and develop into choriocarcinoma (arising from the placenta).
    • About 50% of people with choriocarcinoma had a molar pregnancy
    • Choriocarcinoma can also occur after a full-term pregnancy, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or abortion