Ectopic pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is a major gynecologic emergency, which results in significant morbidity for the mother and inevitable loss of the pregnancy. Its presentation can be varied from minor symptoms to sudden collapse. It produces a diagnostic dilemma and a management problem. With advances in medical care, most women survive ectopic pregnancy and many will be diagnosed early enough to allow conservative management with the resulting lower morbidity and possible anatomic conservation. This article covers what is currently known about the etiology of this condition, the best approach to the diagnoses and management and the long-term consequences for the women concerned.