A molar pregnancy in an embryo donor cow

Abstract

Molar pregnancies, also known as hydatidiform moles, are rare placental conditions, characterized by abnormal growth of trophoblastic cells, thus classified as gestational trophoblastic disease. Moles can result when an empty oocyte is fertilized by one or two sperm cells. Trophoblastic tissue can develop and result in a persistent mole or a choriocarcinoma. A partial mole can occur when a normal oocyte is fertilized by two sperm cells (van Beekhuizen & Unkels, 2012). Moles in cows are not very well elucidated. However, in women, molar pregnancies are often associated with vaginal blood loss, rapid growth of mass in the uterus and high concentrations of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Upon examination in women, the uterus is found to be large for the gestational age and a speculum examination shows a dilated cervical os or vaginal metastasis. Ultrasound examination will either reveal no foetus and amniotic fluid with presence of hyperechoic points or cystic spaces in the placenta with a foetus (van Beekhuizen & Unkels, 2012). Furthermore, ovaries present with enlarged cysts due to the high hCG ovary stimulation