Accuracy of Color Doppler Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Ectopic Pregnancy

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Authors: Aparajita Sinha, Priyasha Suri
Cited by: 0
References: 1

Abstract

Background: Ectopic pregnancy is a potentially life-threatening condition requiring early and accurate diagnosis. Color Doppler ultrasound (CDUS) enhances conventional ultrasound by evaluating vascular patterns, aiding in the identification of ectopic implantation. Aim: To assess the accuracy of color Doppler ultrasound in diagnosing ectopic pregnancy and its reliability in clinical evaluation. Methodology: A hospital-based observational study was conducted on 130 antenatal women. Standard ultrasound and color Doppler assessments were performed to identify gestational sacs and vascular patterns. Correlations between ultrasound findings, clinical presentation, and gestational age were analyzed. Statistical analysis utilized SPSS 25.0, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The study population primarily comprised women aged 21–30 years (73.8%), with a balanced parity distribution. Color Doppler identified characteristic “ring of fire” vascular patterns around ectopic sites, demonstrating high sensitivity and specificity. Strong correlations were observed between gestational age and fetal biometric parameters, with fetal kidney length showing the highest reliability (r = 0.958, p < 0.001). Progressive increases in fetal kidney length across gestational ages supported its use as a consistent marker in obstetric evaluation. Conclusion: Color Doppler ultrasound is a highly effective tool for the early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy, providing precise visualization of vascular patterns and supporting timely clinical management.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosis and Management Reproductive Health and Contraception Ultrasound in Clinical Applications

Publication details

Journal / source
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance
Volume
17
Issue
01
Publication date
30 January 2026
Language
EN