Fetal and placental metastases associated with maternal cancers

PurposeReview the effects of fetal and placental metastases in the setting of maternal cancer.MethodData reported in the peer-reviewed literature were combined with guidelines to evaluate the incidence, type and prognosis for fetal and placental metastasis in the setting of maternal cancer.ResultsLimited literature available. Fetal and placental metastasis are rare. Fetal metastasis generally occurs on the background of concurrent placental metastasis thus it is important to thoroughly examine the placenta in cases of known gestational cancers. Tumor molecular testing is used to confirm maternal to offspring transmission. Maternal to offspring transmission may have a long timeline between birth to clinical presentation. Prognosis in offspring may be better than in the mother who may have a more aggressive phenotype.ConclusionFetal and placental metastasis associated with maternal cancers are rare and limited peer-reviewed literature is available. The occurrence may be confirmed by detailed histological placental evaluation and molecular testing in the offspring.

Automated summary

This article reviews the effects of fetal and placental metastases in maternal cancer. Fetal and placental metastasis are rare and usually occur concurrently. Thorough examination of the placenta is important in cases of known gestational cancers. Tumor molecular testing is used to confirm maternal to offspring transmission. Prognosis in offspring may be better than in the mother.