Choriocarcinoma
Chapter: 18
A highly malignant tumor, composed of neoplastic cytotrophoblastic and syncytiotrophoblastic cells. These cells, like their placental equivalents are highly invasive causing hemorrhage and necrosis of tissue into which they spread. Choriocarcinoma can be derived from the placenta, hence the name gestational choriocarcinoma or as a component of teratocarcinoma of the ovary. The choriocarcinoma cells secrete human chorionic gonadotropin, which serves a as marker for these tumors.
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