Differential Diagnosis for Miscarriage and Bleeding
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Spontaneous Abortion: This is the most common cause of miscarriage and bleeding in early pregnancy, often due to chromosomal abnormalities, hormonal issues, or other factors affecting fetal development.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Although less common than spontaneous abortion, ectopic pregnancy can cause miscarriage and bleeding due to implantation of the embryo outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tube.
- Molar Pregnancy: A rare form of pregnancy characterized by abnormal growth of trophoblasts, the cells that normally develop into the placenta, which can lead to miscarriage and bleeding.
- Threatened Abortion: Vaginal bleeding during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy without cervical dilation, which may or may not lead to miscarriage.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Placenta Previa: A condition where the placenta covers the cervix, which can cause severe bleeding during pregnancy and is life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and managed.
- Placental Abruption: Premature separation of the placenta from the uterus, which can cause bleeding and deprive the fetus of oxygen and nutrients, leading to severe complications or death if not immediately addressed.
- Uterine Rupture: A rare but life-threatening condition where the uterus tears, often in women with a previous uterine scar, which requires emergency surgical intervention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Choriocarcinoma: A rare type of cancer that occurs in the uterus, often following a molar pregnancy, miscarriage, or ectopic pregnancy, which can cause bleeding and requires prompt treatment.
- Metastatic Disease to the Uterus: Rarely, cancers from other parts of the body can metastasize to the uterus, potentially causing bleeding and other symptoms mimicking miscarriage.