The importance of immunohistochemistry in the differential diagnosis of molar disease.

The differential diagnosis among complete moles, partial moles and hydatidiform abortions may be challenging during routine diagnostic activity. These entities share the histological aspect of enlarged villi, but here we summarize also some peculiar features of all of them. If histology does not clarify this distinction, the immunohistochemistry is the most important tool for pathologists to complete such diagnosis. The correct management of immunohistochemistry and of further possible analysis is also reviewed. Lastly, the most important antibodies, starting from p57, are presented. © Copyright Società Italiana di Anatomia Patologica e Citopatologia Diagnostica, Divisione Italiana della International Academy of Pathology.