RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 A Molar Pregnancy Detected by Following β-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Levels after a First Trimester Loss
JF The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice
JO J Am Board Fam Med
FD American Board of Family Medicine
SP 570
OP 573
DO 10.3122/jabfm.18.6.570
VO 18
IS 6
A1 Lee T. Dresang
YR 2005
UL http://www.jabfm.org/content/18/6/570.abstract
AB This case report summarizes the sequence of events that led to the detection of a molar pregnancy missed by ultrasound and initial pathology examinations. This patient illustrates that following serial quantitative β-human chorionic gonadotropin (B-hCG) levels after spontaneous, therapeutic, and elective abortions will help detect potentially life-threatening molar and ectopic pregnancies. Further research is needed to determine the optimal frequency of B-hCG testing. For now, maternity care providers can follow the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommendation that abnormal bleeding for more than 6 weeks after any pregnancy should be evaluated with B-hCG testing. Earlier testing may be considered.