Postpartum choriocarcinoma complicated by uterine perforation: A case report and literature review

• Published in: Case reports in women's health Vol. 45; p. e00693
• Main Authors: Salahaldin, Rayan R., Abubaker, Mais E., Abdalqader, Ghada M., Tuqan, Anas R., Zaben, Basel A., Barghouthi, Iba
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier B.V 01.03.2025; Elsevier
• Subjects: Case report; Choriocarcinoma; Gestational trophoblastic tumor; Postpartum bleeding; Uterine perforation; Choriocarcinoma; Case report; Gestational trophoblastic tumor; Postpartum bleeding; Uterine perforation
• ISSN: 2214-9112; 2214-9112
• DOI: 10.1016/j.crwh.2025.e00693

Choriocarcinoma is a rare, aggressive gestational trophoblastic disorder with metastatic potential, often presenting with abnormal bleeding and increasing levels of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (b-hCG). Diagnosis is confirmed through histopathologic examination after curettage, and treatment typically involves stage-dependent chemotherapy. This case report concerns a 25-year-old woman with heavy postpartum bleeding, later diagnosed with choriocarcinoma. Despite initial single-agent chemotherapy, disease progression led to uterine perforation and hemoperitoneum, requiring emergency surgery. Following recovery, multi-agent chemotherapy resolved her symptoms. Choriocarcinoma's rarity and varied presentation make diagnosis challenging, with lung metastases common. Levels of b-hCG indicate treatment response, and prompt management combining chemotherapy, monitoring, and surgery is crucial for positive outcomes. •Postpartum choriocarcinoma is a rare, aggressive GTD, with abnormal bleeding and elevated beta-hCG as key signs.•Misdiagnosis Maydelay treatment, raising the risk of severe complications like uterine perforation.•Chemotherapy is the primary treatment, with multi-agent therapy required for high-risk cases based on disease stage.•Early detection is vital to reduce complications, highlighting the need for greater awareness among healthcare providers.