Hydatidiform moles among patients with incomplete abortion in Mwanza city, north western Tanzania

Background: Prevalence of hydatidiform mole is not clearly defined, partly because most studies have reported different prevalence rates from different regions. However, there is no previous study that has determined the prevalence and associated risk factors of HM among patients with incomplete abortion evacuated at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) and Sekou Toure Regional Hospital (STRH). Methods: A total of 180 patients with incomplete abortion were enrolled between February 2013 and April 2013. The products of conception were collected and analyzed using Haemotoxylin and Eosin staining technique for hydatidiform moles. Results: One hundred and eighty patients with incomplete abortion scheduled for uterine evacuation agreed to participate in this study. The overall prevalence of HM was 12.8%. Majority of patients (27.5%) with HM were those aged below 20 years. No significant association was observed with risk factors such as parity, contraceptive use, previous abortion and blood group. Conclusion: The prevalence of HM (12.8%) was high and age between 15-20 years was the only significant associated risk factor with the presence of HM among patients with incomplete abortion. Therefore, we recommend submission of evacuated products of conception for histopathological analysis to minimize missed opportunity.