SERUM AND TISSUE VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH-FACTOR LEVELS IN HYDATIDIFORM MOLE

Using a specific and sensitive enzyme immunoassay for vascular endothe lial growth factor (VEGF), we measured the circulating levels of VEGF in patients with hydatidiform mole as well as in maternal serum during normal pregnancy. VEGF levels in maternal serum were elevated at 7 we eks and then fell to a plateau. Serum VEGF levels were increased in pa tients with hydatidiform mole above the normal pregnant levels, while no differences were seen related to the development of persistent trop hoblastic disease. By semi-quantitative RT-PCR in molar tissue for VEG F and placenta growth factor, a member of VEGF family, neither of the mRNA levels have no relation to the development of persistent trophobl astic disease. These observations suggest serum VEGF levels will be of value as a new circulating marker of hydatidiform mole.