Pregnancy of unknown location

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Published Nov 22, 2012
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Vol. 90 No. 11 (2012): Issue Nov 2012

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Monia Malek-mellouli
Fethi Ben Amara
Hédi Reziga

Abstract

Background : A pregnancy of unknown location is a descriptive term that can be defined after performing trans vaginal ultrasound. This situation includes patients with a positive pregnancy test but with no evidence of intra or extra uterine pregnancy on transvaginal sonography.
Aim: To discuss different aspects of management of women with pregnancy of unknown location.
Methods: Review of the literature.
Results: Serum human chorionic gonadotrophin levels, progesterone levels and mathematical models are helpful in the prediction of final outcome of pregnancy: intra uterine pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, spontaneous resolution or persistent pregnancy of unknown location. Active expectant management of asymptomatic women with a pregnancy of unknown location has been shown to be safe.
Conclusion: Surgical intervention (diagnostic laparoscopy and uterine curettage) to diagnose the location of the pregnancy should be restrictive.

Keywords:

Pregnancy of unknown location; ectopic pregnancy; transvaginal ultrasound

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