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Solangon SA, Naftalin J, Jurkovic D. Ovarian ectopic pregnancy: clinical characteristics, ultrasound diagnosis and management. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 63:815-823. [PMID: 38031189 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the clinical, ultrasound and biochemical characteristics of ovarian ectopic pregnancy (OEP) with those of tubal ectopic pregnancy (TEP). METHODS This was a retrospective case-control study of women with OEP and those with TEP seen at a single center between December 2010 and February 2021. OEP was defined as a pregnancy located completely or partially within the ovarian parenchyma, seen separately to a corpus luteum, if a corpus luteum was present within the ipsilateral ovary. We compared demographic features, risk factors, clinical presentation, ultrasound findings and outcomes, such as blood loss at surgery, need for blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, follow-up and future pregnancy outcome, between cases of OEP and TEP. RESULTS Overall, 20 women with OEP were identified and compared to 100 women with TEP. A total of 15/20 (75%) OEPs were diagnosed correctly on the first ultrasound scan. There was no difference between the groups in terms of maternal age, gestational age, gravidity, parity or risk factors. Compared with TEP, OEP was more likely to present with abdominal pain without vaginal bleeding (12/20 (60%) vs 13/100 (13%); odds ratio (OR), 10.0 (95% CI, 3.45-29.20); P < 0.01), contain an embryo with cardiac activity (3/20 (15%) vs 2/100 (2%); OR, 8.7 (95% CI, 1.34-55.65); P = 0.02) and have severe hemoperitoneum on ultrasound (9/20 (45%) vs 8/100 (8%); OR, 9.4 (95% CI, 3.01-29.40); P < 0.01), and had a higher volume of blood loss at surgery (median, 700 mL vs 100 mL; P < 0.01). All surgically managed OEPs had successful laparoscopic treatment (18 excisions, one wedge resection) with preservation of the ovary. Only one (5%) case of OEP required a blood transfusion. CONCLUSIONS OEP is more likely than TEP to contain an embryo and to present with severe hemoperitoneum. In a dedicated early pregnancy setting, the majority of OEPs were detected on an ultrasound scan at the initial visit, facilitating optimal minimally invasive surgical management, reducing the risk of blood transfusion and oophorectomy. Our findings can be used as a reference for clinicians who may not otherwise encounter this rare condition. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Solangon
- EGA Institute for Women's Health, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - J Naftalin
- EGA Institute for Women's Health, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - D Jurkovic
- EGA Institute for Women's Health, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, UK
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Dooley WM, de Braud LV, Wong M, Platts S, Ross JA, Jurkovic D. Development of a single-visit protocol for the management of pregnancy of unknown location following in vitro fertilization: a retrospective study. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:509-515. [PMID: 38265302 PMCID: PMC10905500 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can women with pregnancy of unknown location (PUL) following in vitro fertilization (IVF) be risk-stratified regarding the subsequent need for medical intervention, based on their demographic characteristics and the results of serum biochemistry at the initial visit? SUMMARY ANSWER The ratio of serum hCG to number of days from conception (hCG/C) or the initial serum hCG level at ≥5 weeks' gestation could be used to estimate the risk of women presenting with PUL following IVF and needing medical intervention during their follow-up. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In women with uncertain conception dates presenting with PUL, a single serum hCG measurement cannot be used to predict the final pregnancy outcomes, thus, serial levels are mandatory to establish a correct diagnosis. Serum progesterone levels can help to risk-stratify women at their initial visit but are not accurate in those taking progesterone supplementation, such as women pregnant following IVF. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a retrospective study carried out at two specialist early pregnancy assessment units between May 2008 and January 2021. A total of 224 women met the criteria for inclusion, but 14 women did not complete the follow-up and were excluded from the study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We selected women who had an IVF pregnancy and presented with PUL at ≥5 weeks' gestation. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 30/210 (14.0%, 95% CI 9.9-19.8) women initially diagnosed with PUL required surgical intervention. The hCG/C was significantly higher in the group of women requiring an intervention compared to those who did not (P = 0.003), with an odds ratio of 3.65 (95% CI 1.49-8.89, P = 0.004). A hCG/C <4.0 was associated with a 1.9% risk of intervention, which accounted for 25.7% of the study population. A similar result was obtained by substituting hCG/C <4.0 with an initial hCG level <100 IU/l, which was associated with 2.0% risk of intervention, and accounted for 23.8% of the study population (P > 0.05). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A limitation of our study is that it is retrospective in nature, and as such, we were reliant on existing data. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS A previous study in women with PUL after spontaneous conception found that a 2% intervention rate was considered low enough to eliminate the need for close follow-up and serial blood tests. Using the same 2% cut-off, a quarter of women with PUL after IVF could also avoid attending for further visits and investigations. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No external funding was required for this study. No conflicts of interest are required to be declared. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- W M Dooley
- Faculty of Population Health Sciences, Institute for Women’s Health, University College Hospital, London, UK
| | - L V de Braud
- Faculty of Population Health Sciences, Institute for Women’s Health, University College Hospital, London, UK
| | - M Wong
- Faculty of Population Health Sciences, Institute for Women’s Health, University College Hospital, London, UK
| | - S Platts
- Early Pregnancy and Gynaecology Assessment Unit, Kings College Hospital, London, UK
| | - J A Ross
- Early Pregnancy and Gynaecology Assessment Unit, Kings College Hospital, London, UK
| | - D Jurkovic
- Faculty of Population Health Sciences, Institute for Women’s Health, University College Hospital, London, UK
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Pape J, Bajka A, Seifert B, Asmis L, Imesch P, Metzler J, Burkhardt T, Condous G, Samartzis EP, Bajka M. Judging Urgency in 343 Ectopic Pregnancies Prior to Surgery - The Importance of Transvaginal Sonographic Diagnosis of Intraabdominal Free Blood. ULTRASCHALL IN DER MEDIZIN (STUTTGART, GERMANY : 1980) 2023; 44:614-622. [PMID: 36657460 DOI: 10.1055/a-1967-2134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Assessing urgency in ectopic pregnancies (ECP) remains controversial since the disorder covers a large clinical spectrum. Severe conditions such as acute abdomen or hemodynamic instability are mostly related to intra-abdominal blood loss diagnosed as free fluid (FF) on transvaginal sonography (TVS). The aims of the current study were to investigate the value of FF and to assess other potentially predictive parameters for judging urgency. METHODS Retrospective cohort analysis on prospectively collected cases of proven ECP (n = 343). Demographics, clinical and laboratory parameters, and findings on TVS and laparoscopy (LSC) were extracted from the digital patient file. FF on TVS and free blood (FB) in LSC were evaluated. Low urgency was defined as FB (LSC) < 100 ml and high urgency as FB (LSC) ≥ 300 ml. The best subset of variables for the prediction of FB was selected and predictors of urgency were evaluated using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves. RESULTS Clinical symptoms, age, β-HCG, hemoglobin (HB) preoperative, and FF were examined in multivariate analysis for the cutoff values of 100 ml and 300 ml. FF was the only independent predictor for low and high urgency; HB preoperative was only significant for high urgency offering marginal improvement. ROC analysis revealed FF as an excellent discriminatory parameter for defining low (AUC 0.837, 95% CI 0.794-0.879) and high urgency (AUC 0.902, 95 % CI 0.860-0.945). CONCLUSION Single assessment of FF on TVS is most valuable for judging urgency. However, the exact cutoff values for a low- and high-risk situation must still be defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna Pape
- Gynecology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anahita Bajka
- Gynecology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Burkhardt Seifert
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lars Asmis
- Center for perioperative thrombosis and hemostasis, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Imesch
- Gynecology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julian Metzler
- Gynecology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tilo Burkhardt
- Obstetrics, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - George Condous
- Acute Gynecology, Early Pregnancy & Advanced Endoscopic Surgery Unit, University of Sydney - Sydney Medical School Nepean, Sydney, Australia
| | - Eleftherios Pierre Samartzis
- Gynecology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Gynecology, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Michael Bajka
- Gynecology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Solangon SA, Van Wely M, Van Mello N, Mol BW, Ross JA, Jurkovic D. Methotrexate vs expectant management for treatment of tubal ectopic pregnancy: An individual participant data meta-analysis. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2023; 102:1159-1175. [PMID: 37345445 PMCID: PMC10407021 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ectopic pregnancy is an important health condition which affects up to 1 in 100 women. Women who present with mild symptoms and low serum human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) are often treated with methotrexate (MTX), but expectant management with close monitoring is a feasible alternative. Studies comparing the two treatments have not shown a statistically significant difference in uneventful resolution of ectopic pregnancy, but these studies were too small to define whether certain subgroups could benefit more from either treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS We performed a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis (IPD-MA) of randomized controlled trials comparing systemic MTX and expectant management in women with tubal ectopic pregnancy and low hCG (<2000 IU/L). A one-stage IPD-MA was performed to assess overall treatment effects of MTX and expectant management to generate a pooled intervention effect. Subgroup analyses and exploratory multivariable analyses were undertaken according to baseline serum hCG and progesterone levels. Primary outcome was treatment success, defined as resolution of clinical symptoms and decline in level of serum hCG to <20 IU/L, or a negative urine pregnancy test by the initial intervention strategy, without any additional treatment. Secondary outcomes were need for blood transfusion, surgical intervention, additional MTX side-effects and hCG resolution times. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO: CRD42021214093. RESULTS 1547 studies reviewed and 821 remained after duplicates removed. Five studies screened for eligibility and three IPD requested. Two randomized controlled trials supplied IPD, leading to 153 participants for analysis. Treatment success rate was 65/82 (79.3%) after MTX and 48/70 (68.6%) after expectant management (IPD risk ratio [RR] 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.95-1.40). Surgical intervention rates were not significantly different: 8/82 (9.8%) vs 13/70 (18.6%) (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.23-1.14). Mean time to success was 19.7 days (95% CI 17.4-22.3) after MTX and 21.2 days (95% CI 17.8-25.2) after expectant management (P = 0.25). MTX specific side-effects were reported in 33 MTX compared to four in the expectant group. CONCLUSIONS Our IPD-MA showed no statistically significant difference in treatment efficacy between MTX and expectant management in women with tubal ectopic pregnancy with low hCG. Initial expectant management could be the preferred strategy due to fewer side-effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Madelon Van Wely
- Center for Reproductive MedicineAmsterdam University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research InstituteAmsterdam University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Norah Van Mello
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research InstituteAmsterdam University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Obstetrics and GynecologyAmsterdam University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Ben W. Mol
- The Ritchie Centre, Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and NutritionUniversity of AberdeenAberdeenUK
| | - Jackie A. Ross
- Early Pregnancy and Gynaecology Assessment UnitKing's College London HospitalLondonUK
| | - Davor Jurkovic
- Institute for Women's HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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Pape J, Bajka A, Strutas D, Burkhardt T, Imesch P, Fink D, Samartzis EP, Bajka M. The Predictive Value of Decisive and Soft Ultrasound Criteria for Ectopic Pregnancy Identification in 321 Preoperative Cases. ULTRASCHALL IN DER MEDIZIN (STUTTGART, GERMANY : 1980) 2023; 44:e47-e61. [PMID: 33957680 DOI: 10.1055/a-1487-5030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To define the predictive value of morphological types (MTs) and further criteria in diagnosing ectopic pregnancy (ECP) by transvaginal sonography (TVS) prior to operative confirmation and treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective cohort analysis of 321 consecutive patients with suspected ECP who were advised to undergo operation. RESULTS ECP was investigated by TVS in all 321 patients. Application of the five selected MTs (blob sign, bagel sign, yolk sac, embryo, heart action) resulted in 85 % of cases receiving a conclusive diagnosis and 12 % receiving a presumed ECP diagnosis. 3 % remained nondiagnostic due to large or multiple ovarian cysts, large myoma, extended hemoperitoneum, or severe pain. ECP diagnosis was confirmed intraoperatively in 97 % of cases and was otherwise (3 %) immediately followed by curettage (CUR). The assessment of free fluid by TVS was achieved in most cases and correlated significantly with free blood. In the majority of cases, free blood was not bound to transmural ECP rupture. Histology confirmed the ECP diagnosis directly or by exclusion in 99 % of cases. Three cases of tubal ECP were diagnosed by TVS but not confirmed by LSC (1 %) and, finally, histology from CUR proved miscarriage (false-positive rate 1 %). CONCLUSION We confirm the high accuracy of TVS diagnosis of ECP relying on five clearly different MTs, independent of its location. The blob and bagel sign emerged as important types (75 % of all ECPs). Histology from CUR was needed when ECP could not be visualized in LSC. Assessment of free fluid was essential and accurate in predicting free blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna Pape
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Anahita Bajka
- Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Tilo Burkhardt
- Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Imesch
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Fink
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Michael Bajka
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland
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Poordast T, Naghmehsanj Z, Vahdani R, Moradi Alamdarloo S, Ashraf MA, Samsami A, Najib FS. Evaluation of the recurrence and fertility rate following salpingostomy in patients with tubal ectopic pregnancy. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:2. [PMID: 34979988 PMCID: PMC8721972 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04299-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ectopic pregnancy is one of the leading causes of pregnancy-related mortality; the treatment strategies associated with this condition entail complications, such as recurrence of ectopic pregnancy or infertility. The objective of this study was to evaluate the recurrence and fertility rate after salpingostomy in patients with tubal ectopic pregnancy. Methods This cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted at four referral centers of Obstetrics and Gynecology, under the supervision of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (Iran). The medical records of 125 patients with tubal pregnancy were reviewed. These patients underwent laparoscopic salpingostomy from April 2009 to March 2016.Data on maternal age, BMI, history of previous EP, genital tract infection, IUD insertion, history of previous surgery, and infertility were further obtained. The patients were followed up for approximately 1 to 7 years. The recurrence of EP and subsequent pregnancy rate were assessed during the follow-up period. Results There was no statistically significant relationship between post-salpingostomy recurrence and maternal age, previous abdominopelvic surgery, and history of infertility(P = .425); however, the post-salpingostomy recurrence of EP was correlated with BMI (P = 0.001), previous history of EP (P = 0.001), genital tract infection (P = 0.001), and IUD insertion (P = 003). Among 95 women who had no contraception, pregnancy occurred in 51 cases (53.6%) and recurrence of EP was observed in 16 patients (12.8%). Conclusions Our results suggest that salpingostomy is a safe method with a low risk of recurrence and good fertility outcomes for women who consider future pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Poordast
- Infertility Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiraz Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Naghmehsanj
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Razie Vahdani
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Ali Ashraf
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Almtaj Samsami
- OB & GYN Department, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadat Najib
- Infertility Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiraz Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Resta C, Dooley WM, Malligiannis Ntalianis K, Burugapalli S, Hussain M. Ectopic Pregnancy in a Levonogestrel-Releasing Intrauterine Device User: A Case Report. Cureus 2021; 13:e18867. [PMID: 34804718 PMCID: PMC8598246 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.18867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine devices are considered to be a reliable contraceptive option with a low failure rate. The risk of ectopic pregnancy, however, if an unintended pregnancy occurs is significantly higher. In this study, we present a case of a tubal ectopic pregnancy in a woman with a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device in situ for one year. Our case emphasises the importance of having a high index of suspicion in women who have an intrauterine device in situ, presenting with a positive pregnancy test. We also discuss the importance of timely ultrasound examination and the management considerations of similar cases. The importance of urgent review and investigation of women with positive pregnancy test and intrauterine contraceptive device in situ, given the higher possibility of ectopic pregnancy, is highlighted by this case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Resta
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mid & South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Southend-On-Sea, GBR
| | - William M Dooley
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mid & South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Southend-On-Sea, GBR
| | | | - Sarojini Burugapalli
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mid & South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Southend-On-Sea, GBR
| | - Munawar Hussain
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mid & South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Southend-On-Sea, GBR
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Kirk E, Ankum P, Jakab A, Le Clef N, Ludwin A, Small R, Tellum T, Töyli M, Van den Bosch T, Jurkovic D. Terminology for describing normally sited and ectopic pregnancies on ultrasound: ESHRE recommendations for good practice. Hum Reprod Open 2020; 2020:hoaa055. [PMID: 33354626 PMCID: PMC7738750 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoaa055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What recommendations can be provided to improve terminology for normal and ectopic pregnancy description on ultrasound? SUMMARY ANSWER The present ESHRE document provides 17 consensus recommendations on how to describe normally sited and different types of ectopic pregnancies on ultrasound. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Current diagnostic criteria stipulate that each type of ectopic pregnancy can be defined by clear anatomical landmarks which facilitates reaching a correct diagnosis. However, a clear definition of normally sited pregnancies and a comprehensive classification of ectopic pregnancies are still lacking. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION A working group of members of the ESHRE Special Interest Group in Implantation and Early Pregnancy (SIG-IEP) and selected experts in ultrasound was formed in order to write recommendations on the classification of ectopic pregnancies. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS The working group included nine members of different nationalities with internationally recognised experience in ultrasound and diagnosis of ectopic pregnancies on ultrasound. This document is developed according to the manual for development of ESHRE recommendations for good practice. The recommendations were discussed until consensus by the working group, supported by a survey among the members of the ESHRE SIG-IEP. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A clear definition of normally sited pregnancy on ultrasound scan is important to avoid misdiagnosis of uterine ectopic pregnancies. A comprehensive classification of ectopic pregnancy must include definitions and descriptions of each type of ectopic pregnancy. Only a classification which provides descriptions and diagnostic criteria for all possible locations of ectopic pregnancy would be fit for use in routine clinical practice. The working group formulated 17 recommendations on the diagnosis of the different types of ectopic pregnancies on ultrasound. In addition, for each of the types of ectopic pregnancy, a schematic representation and examples on 2D and 3D ultrasound are provided. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Owing to the limited evidence available, recommendations are mostly based on clinical and technical expertise. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This document is expected to have a significant impact on clinical practice in ultrasound for early pregnancy. The development of this terminology will help to reduce the risk of misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The meetings of the working group were funded by ESHRE. T.T. declares speakers' fees from GE Healthcare. The other authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A. DISCLAIMER This Good Practice Recommendations (GPR) document represents the views of ESHRE, which are the result of consensus between the relevant ESHRE stakeholders and where relevant based on the scientific evidence available at the time of preparation. ESHRE's GPRs should be used for informational and educational purposes. They should not be interpreted as setting a standard of care or be deemed inclusive of all proper methods of care nor exclusive of other methods of care reasonably directed to obtaining the same results. They do not replace the need for application of clinical judgement to each individual presentation, nor variations based on locality and facility type. Furthermore, ESHRE's GPRs do not constitute or imply the endorsement, recommendation or favouring of any of the included technologies by ESHRE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emma Kirk
- Early Pregnancy and Emergency Gynaecology Unit, Royal Free Hospital London, London, UK
| | - Pim Ankum
- Amsterdam Medical Centre, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Attila Jakab
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | | | - Artur Ludwin
- Department of Gynecology and Oncology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Rachel Small
- Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Tina Tellum
- Department of Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Thierry Van den Bosch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Leuven, KU, Belgium
| | - Davor Jurkovic
- Department of OB/GYN, University College Hospital, London, UK
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