McCord ML, Muram D, Lipscomb GH, Powell MP, Arheart KL. Methotrexate therapy for ectopic pregnancy in adolescents.
J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 1996;
9:71-3. [PMID:
8795780 DOI:
10.1016/s1083-3188(96)70013-x]
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Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE
To determine the suitability and efficacy of methotrexate (MTX) therapy for adolescent patients with ectopic pregnancy.
MATERIALS
Patients with ectopic pregnancy were treated with methotrexate, 50 mg/m2 intramuscularly. Follow-up determinations of quantitative beta hCG levels were done on days 1, 4, and 7. They were then seen weekly until beta hCG levels were less than 15 mIU/ml.
PARTICIPANTS
Adolescents with ectopic pregnancy (55 patients) received MTX therapy and comprised the study group. They were compared with 186 adults similarly treated. The groups were compared for treatment outcome and for compliance with the rigid protocol requirements.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Treatment success was defined as a patient who required no surgical intervention and whose beta hCG levels declined to < 15 mIU/ml.
RESULTS
85% of patients required no surgical intervention following MTX injection. Surgical intervention rates were slightly higher and success rates slightly lower for adolescent patients, but these differences were not statistically significant (p = .71). Although adult patients were more likely to have a perfect compliance rating, comparison of all compliance categories showed no significant differences (p = .17).
CONCLUSIONS
MTX therapy is satisfactory for adolescent patients. It is effective, and adolescent patients are able to comply with the requirements of a rigid protocol.
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