[Ectopic pregnancy in Madagascar: 107 cases].

INTRODUCTION

Ectopic pregnancy is a serious gynecological disease requiring early diagnosis and treatment. The aim of this study is to analyze the epidemiologic, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of this disease in a reference hospital in Madagascar.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This prospective and descriptive study included all women diagnosed with and treated for ectopic pregnancy at the University Hospital of Gynecology and Obstetrics of Befelatanana during the 6-month period from January 1 to June 30, 2011.

RESULTS

We recorded 107 cases of ectopic pregnancy, accounting for 2.48% of all deliveries and 5.71% of surgical procedures. The age group most often concerned was that aged 31 to 35 years (28.97%). The main risk factors were a history of miscarriages (36.45%), spontaneous abortions (29.90%), sexually transmitted infections (21.50%), and smoking (16.82%). Amenorrhea was followed by pelvic pain and then bleeding in 78.50% of patients. Tubal rupture occurred in 71% of the cases. Ultrasonography contributed to the diagnosis in 93.5% of patients and a pregnancy test in 91.6% of cases. All cases were treated and resolved by surgery, with salpingectomy in 90.7%. Anemia was the main complication and blood transfusions were required for 27.1% of the women.

CONCLUSION

The prevention of risk factors, the education of the population to consult early, and the use of laparoscopic surgery are useful for improving the treatment and prognosis of ectopic pregnancy.