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An ectopic pregnancy has to be suspected in any woman with lower abdominal pain and/or unusual bleeding who is or might be sexually active and whose pregnancy test is positive. An abnormal rise in blood hCG levels may also indicate an ectopic pregnancy. The threshold of discrimination of intrauterine pregnancy today is around 3000 IU/ml of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG). A high resolution, vaginal ultrasound scan showing no intrauterine pregnancy is presumptive evidence that an ectopic pregnancy is present if the threshold of discrimination for HCG has been reached. An empty uterus with levels lower than 3000IU/ml may be evidence of an ectopic pregnancy, but may also be consistent with an intrauterine pregnancy which is simply too small to be seen on ultrasound. If there is uncertainty it might be necessary to wait a few days and repeat the bloodwork and ultrasound.
An ultrasound showing a gestational sac with fetal heart is clear evidence of ectopic pregnancy.
Free fluid which is non echogenic is a normal finding in the late menstrual cycle and early normal pregnancy. This is a transudate and is not presumptive evidence of bleeding. Echogenic free fluid suggests the presence of blood clot and is suggestive of free blood in the peritoneum.
A laparoscopy or laparotomy can also be performed to visually confirm an ectopic pregnancy. Often if a tubal abortion has occurred, or a tubal rupture has occurred, it is hard actually to find the pregnancy tissue. Laparoscopy in very early ectopic pregnancy may rarely show a normal looking Fallopian tube.
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Important notice:
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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