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Serum amylase levels in ectopic pregnancy
R J Roberge1, R L Wears, C Sanz
1Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital of Jacksonville, Florida.
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Serum amylase levels do not reliably predict ectopic pregnancy (EP) in women with abdominal pain and a positive pregnancy test. This enzyme test should not be used for screening or diagnosing EP.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Clinical Chemistry
Background:
- Ectopic pregnancy (EP) is a life-threatening condition requiring early diagnosis.
- Diagnostic challenges in early EP necessitate reliable markers.
- Serum amylase is a commonly measured enzyme, prompting investigation into its utility for EP detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the correlation between serum amylase levels and the presence of ectopic pregnancy.
- To determine if serum amylase can serve as a diagnostic or screening tool for ectopic pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 34 women with abdominal complaints and positive pregnancy tests were assessed.
- Serum amylase levels were measured as part of the diagnostic workup.
- Levels were compared between patients diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy and those without.
Main Results:
- Thirteen patients (30%) were diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy.
- Serum amylase levels in the ectopic pregnancy group were within normal limits, averaging 81 U/L.
- No statistically significant difference in serum amylase levels was found between the ectopic pregnancy and non-ectopic pregnancy groups (P = .70).
Conclusions:
- Serum amylase levels are not a reliable predictor of ectopic pregnancy.
- This enzyme test should not be utilized for screening or diagnosing ectopic pregnancy.