What is the diagnosis for a 38-year-old woman at 6 weeks gestation presenting with intermittent vaginal bleeding, a closed cervix, and a raised cervical mass that bleeds freely, with ultrasound confirmation of a viable intrauterine pregnancy and normal blood pressure (normotension) and pulse rate (normal heart rate)?

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Differential Diagnosis for Vaginal Bleeding at 6 Weeks Gestation

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Cervical Ectropion or Cervical Polyp: The presence of a raised cervical mass that bleeds freely when manipulated, along with the absence of significant pelvic pain or other systemic symptoms, makes this diagnosis the most likely. The bleeding is likely related to the cervical lesion, especially given its tendency to bleed with minimal trauma, such as intercourse or manipulation during the exam.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Threatened Abortion: Although the ultrasound shows a viable intrauterine pregnancy, the presence of vaginal bleeding at 6 weeks gestation could still suggest a threatened abortion. The absence of pelvic pain and the closed cervix, however, make this less likely compared to a cervical cause of bleeding.
    • Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix could cause bleeding, especially after intercourse. However, the presence of a distinct cervical mass and the absence of other symptoms like purulent discharge make this less likely.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed)
    • Ectopic Pregnancy: Although the ultrasound shows an intrauterine pregnancy, it's crucial to consider ectopic pregnancy in any case of first-trimester bleeding, especially if there's any doubt about the pregnancy's location or viability. The absence of pelvic pain and the presence of a visible intrauterine pregnancy make this less likely, but it's a diagnosis that must be ruled out due to its potential severity.
    • Molar Pregnancy: While less common, a molar pregnancy could present with vaginal bleeding in the first trimester. The ultrasound finding of a yolk sac and fetal pole makes this less likely, but abnormalities in fetal development or excessive uterine size for dates could suggest this diagnosis.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Cervical Cancer: Although extremely rare in this context, especially without other symptoms or risk factors, cervical cancer could present with abnormal vaginal bleeding and a cervical mass. The patient's age and the acute presentation make this less likely, but it should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially if other causes are ruled out.
    • Choriocarcinoma: This is a rare malignancy that could follow any form of pregnancy and presents with abnormal uterine bleeding. The presence of a normal intrauterine pregnancy on ultrasound and the lack of other systemic symptoms make this diagnosis highly unlikely but should be considered if the patient's condition does not improve or if there are unusual findings on follow-up.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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