Abnormal pregnancy in which the fertilized ovum is implanted outside the uterine cavity is termed:

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur lecturer 2021

Explanation

Ectopic pregnancy is defined as the implantation of a fertilized ovum in a location other than the normal intrauterine cavity.
The most common site for an ectopic pregnancy is the fallopian tube, which accounts for approximately 90% of all cases.
This condition is considered a medical emergency because the growing embryo can cause the structure it's implanted in (like the fallopian tube) to rupture, leading to severe, life-threatening internal hemorrhage.

Option A: Abortion refers to the termination or loss of a pregnancy before the fetus reaches viability (typically before 20 weeks), not implantation outside the uterus.
Option B: Antepartum hemorrhage is defined as vaginal bleeding that occurs after 24 weeks of gestation. Ectopic pregnancy typically presents in the first trimester.
Option D: A molar pregnancy is a type of gestational trophoblastic disease characterized by the abnormal growth of trophoblastic tissue within the uterus, not an implantation outside of it.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition and characteristics of ectopic pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is critical to prevent rupture and hemorrhagic shock, a leading cause of maternal mortality in the first trimester.
Nurses must be vigilant for the classic triad of symptoms in any woman of reproductive age: amenorrhea (missed period), unilateral lower abdominal pain, and vaginal spotting or bleeding.
A ruptured ectopic pregnancy is a surgical emergency. The nurse's role includes rapid assessment, obtaining IV access, monitoring for shock, and preparing the patient for immediate surgery.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of medical terminology.
First, analyze the question stem: "Abnormal pregnancy in which the fertilized ovum is implanted outside the uterine cavity."
Break down the key phrase: "implanted outside the uterine cavity." The prefix "ecto-" means "outside."
Evaluate each option based on this definition.
Option A, Abortion, is the termination of a pregnancy.
Option B, Antepartum hemorrhage, is bleeding in late pregnancy.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Definition and characteristics of ectopic pregnancy.
Stem keywords: Abnormal pregnancy, fertilized ovum, implanted outside, uterine cavity
Lead-in keywords: is termed
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 1028-1030

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 p. 1040-1042

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 27-46

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