Original research article Early molar pregnancy: experience in a large abortion service ☆

Background: With 1.1 million US women having first-trimester abortions annually, clinicians have an opportunity to diagnose molar pregnancy early. Early moles, however, may lack “classic” diagnostic hallmarks. Study Design: This study aimed to assess the accuracy of the diagnosis of hydatidiform mole in women seeking abortion services at a large Planned Parenthood affiliate. We retrospectively identified women with a histopathologic diagnosis of mole from the affiliate's risk management database. The tissue specimens were reviewed by an expert independent pathologist and analyzed by flow cytometry and p57 KIP2 immunohistochemical staining to clarify the diagnosis.