choriocarcinoma
Chapter: 17
A rare, highly malignant tumor of germ cell origin, composed of neoplastic cytotrophoblastic and syncytiotrophoblastic cells. These cells, like their placental equivalents are highly invasive causing hemorrhage and necrosis of tissues into which they have spread. Choriocarcinoma elements are common components of teratocarcinomas. Choriocarcinoma cells secrete human chorionic gonadotropin, which serves as a marker for these tumors.
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