When a fertilized ovum is implanted outside the uterine cavity, it is called?

AIIMS Nagpur NO - 2018

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS Nagpur NO - 2018

Explanation

Ectopic pregnancy is the medical term for a pregnancy where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity.
The most common site for an ectopic pregnancy is the fallopian tube, which accounts for over 95% of cases.
Other possible implantation sites include the ovary, the cervix, or the abdominal cavity, as shown in the provided diagram.
This condition is a medical emergency because the growing embryo can cause the structure it's implanted in (like the fallopian tube) to rupture, leading to severe internal bleeding.

Option A: An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac on the ovary. While it can cause pelvic pain, it is not a pregnancy and does not involve the implantation of a fertilized ovum.
Option C: A hydatidiform mole is a type of gestational trophoblastic disease where abnormal tissue grows inside the uterus instead of a normal embryo. The implantation occurs within the uterus, not outside of it.
Option D: Abortion refers to the termination or loss of a pregnancy. While an ectopic pregnancy will ultimately result in pregnancy loss, 'abortion' is the outcome, not the definition of the abnormal implantation itself.

Visual 1: Diagram - The provided image clearly illustrates the different possible locations for an ectopic pregnancy, helping to solidify the concept that implantation occurs outside the uterine cavity. It shows sites in the fallopian tube, ovary, abdomen, and cervix.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition and sites of ectopic pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The classic triad of symptoms for an ectopic pregnancy is abdominal pain, amenorrhea (missed period), and vaginal bleeding or spotting. Nurses must have a high index of suspicion for any sexually active woman of reproductive age presenting with these symptoms.
Early diagnosis through serial β-hCG blood tests and transvaginal ultrasound is critical to prevent rupture, which is a life-threatening emergency causing severe hemorrhage and shock.
Nursing care involves monitoring vital signs for signs of shock (hypotension, tachycardia), managing pain, providing emotional support, and preparing the patient for potential medical (methotrexate) or surgical intervention.

How to Approach the Question

First, read the question carefully to identify the core concept being asked. The key phrase is 'fertilized ovum is implanted outside the uterine cavity'.
This is a definition-based recall question. Your task is to match this definition with the correct medical term from the options.
Evaluate each option against the definition.
Option A, 'Ovarian cyst', is a growth on the ovary, not an implanted pregnancy.
Option B, 'Ectopic pregnancy', literally means 'out of place' pregnancy, which directly matches the question's definition.
Option C, 'Hydatidiform mole', is an abnormal pregnancy within the uterus.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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