Discriminatory serum hCG level for ectopic pregnancy

Ishai Levin*, Shiri Shinar

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

When human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level is above the discriminatory value of 1500 IU/L, but no intrauterine pregnancy is visible on transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS), options such as a complete/incomplete abortion, multiple gestation, or heterotopic gestation should be considered. hCG level below the discriminatory zone in the absence of an intrauterine sac is inconclusive. In hemodynamically stable patients, repeated beta-hCG and TVUS exams are recommended. It is important to note that the discriminatory values of serum hCG for the diagnosis of an intrauterine pregnancy are not always reliable. Failure to recognize an intrauterine pregnancy may be more harmful than delaying diagnosis of an extrauterine pregnancy.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEctopic Pregnancy
Subtitle of host publicationA Clinical Casebook
PublisherSpringer International Publishing
Pages11-18
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9783319111407
ISBN (Print)9783319111391
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2015
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • hCG discriminatory zone
  • hCG level

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