1. Relationship of Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin to Ectopic Pregnancy Detection and Size
- Author
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Eisaman, Duane M., Brown, Nicole E., and Geyer, Sarah
- Subjects
ectopic pregnancy ,Emergency Medicine ,beta-hCG - Abstract
Introduction: Ectopic pregnancies are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the first trimester of pregnancy. Hospital protocols requiring a specific beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) level to qualify for diagnostic testing (pelvic ultrasound) can delay diagnosis and treatment. In this study we sought to determine the relationship between β-hCG level and the size of ectopic pregnancy withassociated outcomes.Methods: We performed a retrospective case review of patients diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy in an urban, academic emergency department specializing in obstetrical care, from January 1, 2015–December 31, 2017. Variables extracted included presentation, treatment, adverse outcomes, and rates of rupture.Results: Weidentified 519 unique ectopic pregnancies. Of those ectopic pregnancies, 22.9% presented with evidence of rupture on ultrasound, and 14.4% showed evidence of hemodynamic instability (pulse >100 beats per minute; systolic blood pressure
- Published
- 2024