Introduction:

Hydatidiform mole is a type of gestational trophoblastic disease that results from the abnormal fertilization of an oocyte and causes nonspecific symptoms such as amenorrhea, metrorrhagia, and enlarged uterus. Although rare, its most characteristic symptoms include hyperemesis, early-onset pre-eclampsia, anemia, and respiratory distress.

Case presentation:

A 47-year-old Moroccan woman consulted the emergency department of the Hospital Clínico Universitario in Valladolid (Spain) after a month of persistent coughing and emesis. The patient reported epigastralgia and amenorrhoea for two months, as well as scant vaginal bleeding two days prior to consultation. Taking into account that the patient tested positive for pregnancy, that a heterogeneous intrauterine mass measuring 124x120mm was observed on transvaginal ultrasound, that no abnormal findings were reported on Doppler ultrasound, and that her serum ßhCG levels reached a value of 772.110 mIU/mL, a diagnosis of hydatidiform mole was suspected. Once informed about the possible therapeutic options, the patient decided to undergo a total hysterectomy, as she stated that she had already fulfilled her desire to be a mother. After the procedure, the patient's clinical condition improved, and the pathology report of the mass confirmed the diagnosis of partial hydatidiform mole.

Conclusion:

Early diagnosis of hydatidiform mole is paramount in order to provide adequate treatment and improve the prognosis of these patients. Therefore, despite its low incidence and non-specific clinical manifestations, it should be considered as a differential diagnosis for first-trimester metrorrhagia.

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