Ectopic pregnancy - Etiology, modern diagnostic and therapeutic approach

Abstract

Ectopic pregnancy causes major maternal morbidity and mortality, with pregnancy loss, and its incidence is increasing worldwide. It is still the most common cause of maternal deaths in the first trimester. An ectopic pregnancy in the fallopian tube, if not treated, can cause tubal rupture and/or intra abdominal bleeding. Treatment options for tubal ectopic pregnancy are surgery, medical treatment, and expectant management. Most fatal cases result from delayed diagnosis and inappropriate investigation and treatment despite the management of women with suspected ectopic pregnancy improving considerably because of improved tools for diagnosis and management. Prompt diagnosis and treatment thus is a very important measure to prevent the potential life-threatening complications of ectopic pregnancies.