[Single-dose intramuscular methotrexate for treatment of ectopic pregnancy]

Zhonghua Fu Chan Ke Za Zhi. 1996 Aug;31(8):490-2.
[Article in Chinese]

Abstract

Objective: The efficacy and indication of single-dose intramuscular methotrexate to treat early ectopic pregnancy were explored.

Methods: 27 cases of ectopic pregnancy were treated by single-dose intramuscular methotrexate (50 mg/m2) without citrovorum rescue. The beta-hCG was monitored regularly till it became normal. Twelve of them recieved this regimen in outpatient service.

Results: 24 cases (88.9%) were successfully treated. Three failed and switched to operation. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in gestational age and size of adnexa ectopic mass between successful cases and failed cases, but highly significant differences (P < 0.01) in occurrence rate of abdominal pain and beta-hCG titers before treatment.

Conclusion: The early diagnosis and adherence to strict criteria are the keys to successful management. No abdominal pain, ectopic mass < or = 5 cm in greatest dimension and titer of serum beta-hCG < 6000 IU/L were mainly indications of drug treatment.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human / blood
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intramuscular
  • Methotrexate / administration & dosage*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy, Ectopic / blood
  • Pregnancy, Ectopic / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human
  • Methotrexate