Key Points
- Use the highest‑yield diagnostic test early; do not let testing delay time‑critical therapy.
- Set objective targets (hemodynamic, neurologic, respiratory) and reassess frequently.
- Plan definitive source control or disease‑specific therapy when indicated; document follow‑up and patient education.
Algorithm
- Stabilize; obtain TVUS and quantitative β‑hCG; determine if above discriminatory zone.
- If unstable or ruptured → immediate surgery.
- If stable and meets criteria → single‑dose methotrexate; schedule day 4/7 β‑hCG checks and counsel on ectopic precautions.
- If not a candidate or fails MTX → laparoscopic management (salpingostomy/salpingectomy).
- Ensure Rhogam for Rh‑negative; arrange close OB follow‑up and contraception counseling.
Clinical Synopsis & Reasoning
Suspect ectopic with abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and positive pregnancy test. Use β‑hCG and transvaginal ultrasound to determine location; select methotrexate for stable, reliable patients meeting criteria; otherwise proceed to laparoscopic salpingostomy/salpingectomy. Rhogam for Rh‑negative patients.
Treatment Strategy & Disposition
Stabilize ABCs. Initiate guideline‑concordant first‑line therapy with precise dosing and continuous monitoring. Escalate to advanced/procedural interventions based on explicit failure criteria. Define ICU, step‑down, and ward disposition triggers; involve specialty teams early.
Epidemiology / Risk Factors
- Risk varies by comorbidity and precipitants; see citations for condition‑specific data.
Investigations
| Test | Role / Rationale | Typical Findings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transvaginal ultrasound | Localization | Adnexal mass; empty uterus above discriminatory zone | — |
| Serial β‑hCG | Trajectory | Rise/plateau inconsistent with IUP | Guide management |
| CBC/type & screen | Safety | Anemia; Rh status | Give Rhogam if Rh‑negative |
Pharmacology
| Medication/Intervention | Mechanism | Onset | Role in Therapy | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Methotrexate 50 mg/m2 IM (single‑dose protocol) | Antimetabolite | Days | For stable patients meeting criteria (small mass, low β‑hCG, no fetal cardiac activity, reliable follow‑up) | Contraindicated in renal/hepatic disease, breastfeeding |
| Analgesia/antiemetics | Supportive | Hours | Symptom control | — |
| Rh(D) immune globulin | Immune | Hours | Rh‑negative patients | Standard dosing per GA |
Prognosis / Complications
- Outcome depends on timeliness of diagnosis and definitive therapy; monitor for complications.
Patient Education / Counseling
- Provide red‑flag education, adherence guidance, and explicit return precautions; arrange timely specialty follow‑up.
References
- ACOG Practice Bulletin: Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy (updated) — Link