Clinical Picture and Features of ectopic pregnancy

clinical picture of ectopic pregnancy typically includes abdominal pain, missed periods, and vaginal bleeding. However, symptoms can vary and may mimic other conditions, making early diagnosis crucial.

Here’s a detailed overview of the clinical features:

⚠️ Classic Triad of Symptoms
Abdominal or pelvic pain: Present in up to 98% of cases; often sharp, localized, and may worsen over time.

Amenorrhea: Missed menstrual period is common, occurring in about 74% of patients.

Vaginal bleeding: Irregular spotting or bleeding occurs in 40–56% of cases.

Note: Only about 50% of patients present with all three symptoms.

🩺 Additional Clinical Signs
Adnexal tenderness or mass: Found in approximately 50% of cases during pelvic exam.

Abdominal tenderness: Seen in 75% of patients.

Shoulder tip pain: Referred pain due to diaphragmatic irritation from internal bleeding.

Dizziness or syncope: May indicate significant blood loss or rupture.

Signs of shock: Hypotension, tachycardia, and pallor in severe cases.

🧪 Diagnostic Clues
hCG levels: Lower than expected for gestational age or plateauing levels.

Transvaginal ultrasound: Absence of intrauterine pregnancy with positive hCG suggests ectopic pregnancy.

Culdocentesis or diagnostic laparoscopy: May be used in unclear cases or emergencies.

🧠 Differential Diagnosis
Symptoms may resemble:

Spontaneous abortion

Ovarian torsion

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Appendicitis

🚨 Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy
Presents with severe abdominal pain, signs of internal bleeding, and hemodynamic instability.

Requires emergency surgical intervention
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