BACKGROUND:

Placental chorioangioma is the most common placental tumor: it is found in 1% of pregnancies. This tumor causes: growth restriction, anemia, thrombocytopenia and polyhydramnios, especially in cases with chorioangioma larger than 5 cm in diameter (giant chorioangioma). Almost all are small and can be found in pathologic examinations and without complications.

CLINICAL CASE:

A 40-year-old multigestation patient in the second trimester of pregnancy. Obstetric ultrasound showed an isoechoic image in the distal third, towards the posterior aspect, with peripheral and central vascularity on power Doppler, measuring 68.4 x 63.6 mm, data compatible with a giant placental chorioangioma. Mascroscopic pathology report: monochorionic monoamniotic placenta of 505 g, placental disc 16 x 16 x 3.5 cm; the umbilical cord: 8 x 12 cm, central insertion, 3 vascular lights inside. Placental chorioangioma 5 cm in greatest diameter with areas of calcifications. Histological sections reported: tertiary chorionic villi with heterogeneous maturation, small and short, with increased syncytial nodules in 50% of the placental thickness and extensive infarcts.

CONCLUSIONS:

To strengthen prenatal diagnosis it is necessary to understand the influence of placental chorioangioma on the fetus and the mother; to know the selected cases that will require fetal therapy in case of complications. Careful follow-up through ultrasound surveillance of the placenta and fetus is decisive.

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