Gestational and non-gestational trophoblastic neoplasms: new developments in DNA analysis, metabolic function, diagnosis and treatment.

Recent technological advances have made it possible to further define important molecular biological characteristics of gestational and non-gestational trophoblast neoplasm, as they relate to genetic origin and metabolic, endocrine, and diagnostic functions. Exciting new work with DNA analysis has defined origins of placental site trophoblastic tumors, a variant of choriocarcinoma not previously well understood. Coexistent hydatidiform mole and normal gestation have been diagnostically defined and carried out to viability. Finally, refinement of classification systems and expanded tumor markers offer promise of improved salvage in gestational neoplasms and an enlarging number of non-gestational neoplasms.