Question
Best to diagnose unruptured ectopic pregnancy ‑
| A. | Laproscopy |
| B. |
UPT |
| C. |
USG |
| D. |
Culdocentesis |
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » C Explanation |
 |
An unruptured ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed primarily using transvaginal ultrasonography (TVUS) in combination with quantitative serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG).
Transvaginal ultrasound is the preferred imaging investigation because it can directly demonstrate:
- An empty uterine cavity despite a positive pregnancy test.
- An adnexal gestational sac/mass.
- A yolk sac or embryo outside the uterus, which is diagnostic of ectopic pregnancy.
- Free fluid in the pelvis, which may suggest bleeding.
Therefore, among the given options, USG is the best answer.
Why the other options are incorrect
A. Laparoscopy
- Laparoscopy can directly visualize an ectopic pregnancy and is highly accurate.
- However, it is invasive and is generally reserved for situations where the diagnosis remains uncertain or when surgical treatment is required.
- It is not the routine first-line diagnostic investigation for an unruptured ectopic pregnancy.
B. Urine pregnancy test (UPT)
- A UPT establishes that the patient is pregnant but does not determine the location of the pregnancy.
- A positive UPT cannot distinguish an intrauterine pregnancy from an ectopic pregnancy.
D. Culdocentesis
- Culdocentesis can detect intraperitoneal blood in a ruptured ectopic pregnancy.
- It is invasive and has largely been replaced by ultrasonography and quantitative β-hCG testing.
- It is therefore not the best investigation for an unruptured ectopic pregnancy.