Utility of a sensitive bedside serum pregnancy test

Ectopic pregnancy in adolescents: a clinical review for pediatricians

Pediatricians caring for sexually active female adolescents and young adults need to be aware of the history, symptoms, and signs of an ectopic pregnancy. A thorough history and physical examination, including the pelvic examination, as well as specific diagnostic tests such as repeated quantitative hCG measurements, and ultrasonography when indicated, are crucial to proper and early diagnosis of a nonruptured ectopic pregnancy manageable by laparoscopy. The key to early diagnosis is to include ectopic pregnancy in the differential diagnosis in any sexually active female patient who has abnormal vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain. With early diagnosis, close observation, and appropriate management, the outcome is more likely to be favorable, with minimal morbidity and risk of death.

Should I trust office pregnancy tests?

Pregnancy tests have become quite reliable since the introduction of monoclonal antibody procedures. Even home kits use this technology and are greatly improved over earlier versions. However, as Dr Bluestein explains, use of these tests must be accompanied by an understanding of factors that can cause false results. He describes these factors and points out the need for further testing and obstetric consultation in some situations.

Cost effectiveness of an accurate and rapid assay for serum human chorionic gonadotropin in suspected ectopic pregnancy

The cost effectiveness and clinical utility of a simple, rapid, and accurate pregnancy test in the evaluation of suspected ectopic gestation were studied. The introduction of this qualitative serum assay for human chorionic gonadotropin into our outpatient department during a 1-month period was associated with a significant decrease in culdocenteses (p less than 0.001), ultrasound examinations (p less than 0.025), and hospital admissions (p less than 0.01), with a net projected institutional reduction in health care costs of +123,000 annually.