Final answer:
A molar pregnancy is characterized by the presence of abnormal placental tissue in the uterus, but there is no normal pregnancy occurring. The mass may contain embryonic or fetal-like structures, but they are not viable.
Step-by-step explanation:
A molar pregnancy is characterized by the presence of abnormal placental tissue that develops into a mass in the uterus. This tissue is not fetal, and there is no normal pregnancy occurring. The mass may contain embryonic or fetal-like structures, but they are not viable. Molar pregnancies can be categorized as complete or partial, depending on the presence or absence of fetal tissue.