Ectopic pregnancy: criteria and accuracy of ultrasonic diagnosis

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 1978 Jul;131(1):153-6. doi: 10.2214/ajr.131.1.153.

Abstract

Of 26 ectopic pregnancies, a correct positive ultrasonic diagnosis was made in 77%, while a false negative diagnosis was made in 23%. Most commonly, the ectopic pregnancy appeared as a complex adnexal mass immediately adjacent to an enlarged "empty" uterus. Ultrasonic identification of an extrauterine gestational sac, allowing a definitive diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy, was uncommon.

MeSH terms

  • Diagnostic Errors
  • False Negative Reactions
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy, Ectopic / diagnosis*
  • Pregnancy, Tubal / diagnosis
  • Ultrasonography*