Early diagnosis of a heterotopic pregnancy: Case report

Abstract

Heterotopic pregnancy is the coexistence of an intrauterine and an extrauterine pregnancy. Its incidence is low in spontaneous pregnancies, with one case reported per 10,000 to 50,000 pregnancies. Given that it is an exceptional occurrence associated with high maternal morbidity and mortality, its timely diagnosis and management are crucial. We present the case of a 20-year-old primigravida with no associated comorbidities who presented to her hospital with gastrointestinal symptoms. She was referred to a higher-level unit where a heterotopic pregnancy was identified via transvaginal ultrasound, and she underwent timely surgical intervention. The prompt diagnosis allowed for immediate and appropriate management, preventing potentially serious complications and preserving the viability of the intrauterine pregnancy. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of clinical suspicion and systematically using imaging techniques, even after an intrauterine pregnancy has been confirmed, to improve maternal safety and optimize reproductive outcomes.