THE ROLE OF ULTRASOUND IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF PARTIAL HYDATIDIFORM MOLE IN A RURAL AREA: A CASE REPORT

Abstract
Partial hydatidiform mole is a form of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) that is
characterized by the presence of fetus or fetal tissue co-existing with an intrauterine cystic mass.
It is a rare presentation with a reported incidence of 1:700 births. Ultrasound scan is an excellent
imaging modality used in the diagnosis of this condition. We are reporting 30 years old G6P5+0
A5 who was referred to our facility from a rural area for ultrasound scan on account of painless
vaginal bleeding 3/7, lower abdominal pain, head ache, nausea and vomiting. There was a history
of 4 months of amenorrhea. No history of instrumentation or trauma. A presumptive diagnosis of
threatening miscarriage was entertained by the referring health personnel. Abdominopelvic
ultrasound done revealed a gravid uterus containing a live fetus at about 12 weeks + 5 days GA
with coexisting hypoechoic mass containing multiple cystic areas within it given the so-called
“snow storm” or “bunch of grapes” appearance. The placenta was noted on the anterior uterine
body. Diagnosis of partial molar gestation with a live fetus was made. The patient lost the
pregnancy one day after the scan at the referring PHC facility before reaching a tertiary hospital.
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Keywords: Partial hydatidiform mole, gestational trophoblastic disease, amenorrhea.
How to cite: Aminu A, Sule AS, Sadisu MM, Ibrahim HG, Sule MB, Faruk KU. The Role of
Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Partial Hydatidiform Mole in a Rural Area: A Case Report.
Global Professionals Multidisciplinary Practices Journal. 2026, 3 (3):6-10

PARTIAL HYDATIDIFORM RURAL AREA A CASE REPORT pdf