Pregnancy outcomes after chemotherapy for trophoblastic neoplasia

Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992). 2016 Dec;62(9):837-842. doi: 10.1590/1806-9282.62.09.837.

Abstract

Introduction: The successful development of chemotherapy enabled a fertilitysparing treatment for patients with trophoblastic neoplasia. After disease remission, the outcome of a subsequent pregnancy becomes a great concern for these women.

Objective: To analyze existing studies in the literature that describe the reproductive outcomes of patients with trophoblastic neoplasia treated with chemotherapy.

Method: Systematic review was performed searching for articles on Medline/ Pubmed, Lilacs and Cochrane Library databases, using the terms "gestational trophoblastic disease" and "pregnancy outcome".

Results: A total of 18 articles were included. No evidence of decreased fertility after chemotherapy for trophoblastic neoplasia was observed. The abortion rates in patients who conceived within 6 months after chemotherapy was higher compared to those who waited longer. Some studies showed increased rates of stillbirth and repeat hydatidiform moles. Only one work showed increased congenital abnormalities.

Conclusion: The pregnancies conceived after chemotherapy for trophoblastic neoplasia should be followed with clinical surveillance due to higher rates of some pregnancy complications. However, studies in the literature provide reassuring data about reproductive outcomes of these patients.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Spontaneous / chemically induced
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Fertility / drug effects*
  • Gestational Trophoblastic Disease / complications
  • Gestational Trophoblastic Disease / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome*
  • Time-to-Pregnancy

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents