Case report: serial serum HCG measurements in a patient with an ectopic pregnancy: a case for caution.
Improvements in the use of ultrasound in early pregnancy have resulted in improved diagnosis of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. There are still, however, a significant number of women with a suspected abnormal pregnancy, where transvaginal ultrasound is unable to locate the pregnancy. The concern is the possibility of ectopic pregnancy. An alternative diagnostic tool is required and it has been suggested that it is possible to monitor serum beta human chorionic gonadotrophin. The present case highlights the potential dangers of this management.
Montgomery Irvine
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Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Watford General Hospital, Vicarage Road, Watford, Herts WD1 8HB, UK.
Padwick
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ML
D000328:Adult; D018997:Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human / Q000097:blood*; D005187:Fallopian Tubes / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006465:Hemoperitoneum / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D009994:Osmolar Concentration; D011247:Pregnancy; D011271:Pregnancy, Ectopic / Q000097:blood* / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D012422:Rupture, Spontaneous
D018997:Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human