Corpus luteum function in ectopic pregnancy

Serum beta HCG, progesterone, and 17 alpha hydroxy progesterone values were determined in cases of ectopic pregnancy. They were found to be significantly lower than in normal intrauterine pregnancies of the same gestational age. No correlation was found between serum beta HCG and 17 hydroxy progesterone values or between serum progesterone and 17 hydroxy progesterone values. Our results tend to support the theory that a normal feto placental unit is needed for the preservation of the function of the corpus luteum.