Choriocarcinoma in a viable pregnancy with the rare presentation of intractable lower back pain

Abstract

Objective: We present a case of choriocarcinoma in a viable pregnancy with the rare presentation of intractable lower back pain. Case report: The patient is a 34-year-old multiparous woman with her second pregnancy, and a history of scoliosis with spinal fixation. Her first pregnancy was uneventful, with a term vaginal delivery. She was hospitalized four times due to intractable back pain from 25 to 31 weeks, and terminated at 31 weeks. The placenta was unremarkable on gross examination. Postpartum, the patient developed obstructive ileus, requiring a rectosigmoid resection. She was diagnosed with metastatic choriocarcinoma to the liver, para-aortic lymph nodes, and mesentery. A week later, she developed micro-thrombosis of all limbs, massive ascites, pleural effusion. Patient refused chemotherapy and died on post-operative Day 15. Conclusion: Presentation of choriocarcinoma in pregnancy varies widely. Clinicians should consider the differential diagnosis of choriocarcinoma when faced with abnormal unexplained symptoms during pregnancy.

Keywords

• Choriocarcinoma
• Pregnancy
• Clinical presentation
• Lower back pain