Ectopic pregnancy

Lancet. 2005 Aug;366(9485):583-91. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(05)67103-6.

Abstract

Ectopic pregnancy is an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Use of transvaginal ultrasonography and quantitative measurement of the beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) has led to a reduction in the need for diagnostic laparoscopy. Furthermore, with earlier diagnosis, medical therapy with methotrexate can be offered and surgery avoided in some women, though the best regimen remains unclear. In the surgical management of ectopic pregnancy, the benefits of salpingectomy over salpingostomy are uncertain. Although there have been advances in the management of ectopic pregnancy there are still questions to be answered.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy, Ectopic* / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy, Ectopic* / etiology
  • Pregnancy, Ectopic* / prevention & control
  • Pregnancy, Ectopic* / therapy
  • Risk Factors