An ectopic pregnancy may occur with the placenta attached to the peritoneum without involvement of the fallopian tube or ovary.
Features of an ectopic pregnancy within the abdominal cavity:
(1) The site of implantation is within the peritoneal cavity.
(2) It may present with abdominal pain and/or hemoperitoneum.
(3) Urine and serum beta-HCG are elevated.
(4) Ultrasonography identifies a gestational sac outside of the uterus.
The pregnancy is termed advanced if it greater than 20 weeks gestation.
Facts:
(1) A viable infant may be delivered.
(2) It may be undiagnosed until late in the gestational period.
(3) It can occur in a woman who has had a hysterectomy.
(4) The placenta may be left in situ, at least initially.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
Specialty: Obstetrics & Gynecology
