Pathophysiology of Ectopic

Pregnancy
Predisposing factors:
Unknown, but can be due to:
Coitus
- Webbing (fibrous bands)
- Adhesions due to chronic salphingitis, PID
- - Abnormal fallopian tube anatomy Union of ovum and
- - Previous tubal surgeries sperm cell

Blocks the fallopian Fertilization

tube
Formation of an
Zygote can’t travel the length embryo
of tube

(+) Implantation at the fallopian tube (No

Pregnancy unusual symptoms)
test for hCG
Corpus luteum continue
Amenorrhea to function

Nausea & Zygote grows

Vomiting larger
 Sharp, stabbing
Rupture in membranes of the affected
pain on lower
fallopian tube
abdominal
quadrants
Tearing & destruction of blood vessels occurs
Scanty brown
vaginal spotting
Bleeding

Products of conception of the ruptured tube & accompanied

blood may be expelled

Additional bleeding
Light headedness
Rapid, threading pulse
Acute hemorrhage
Rapid pulse
Rapid respirations
Severe shock
Anemia
Reduced blood pressure
Reduced oxygenation Hypovolemic shock
Leukocytosis
Death