Ectopic Pregnancy: Epidemiology, Advances in Diagnosis and Management

Abstract

INTRODUCTIONEctopic pregnancy was first clearly described by Abulcasis, a famous Arabic writer on surgical topics.1 Although maternal deaths from ectopic pregnancy have declined, it is still the leading cause of death in the first trimester and accounts for 6–11% of all maternal deaths. From 1982 to 1984, 14 women died in England and Wales from this condition.2 The presence of ectopic pregnancy subjects women to the uncertainties of intra‐abdominal bleeding, laparotomy, extended hospital stay and fetal loss. Furthermore, they could face reduced future fertility.3