Which condition describes implantation of a fertilized ovum outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube?

• A. Abruptio placentae
• B. Ectopic pregnancy
• C. Preeclampsia
• D. Eclampsia

Answer: (B)

Implantation of a fertilized ovum outside the uterus is an ectopic pregnancy, most often in the fallopian tube. This is an emergency because the growing pregnancy can rupture the tube and cause life‑threatening internal bleeding. Clinically, patients may have lower abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding, a positive pregnancy test, and ultrasound findings such as an absent intrauterine gestation or an adnexal mass. Risk factors include tubal scarring from infections or prior surgery, smoking, or assisted reproductive techniques. The other options describe different pregnancy complications: abruptio placentae involves premature separation of a normally implanted placenta with painful bleeding later in pregnancy; preeclampsia is new-onset hypertension with proteinuria after 20 weeks; eclampsia adds seizures to that picture. These distinctions explain why ectopic pregnancy is the best fit.