Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have identified a new diagnostic biomarker that is present in the first trimester of pregnancy, which enables rapid identification of an ectopic or extra-uterine pregnancy.
No viable test currently exists to distinguish an ectopic from a healthy pregnancy. It is estimated that nearly half of all women with an ectopic pregnancy are not diagnosed when they first seek medical attention, with 20% of women needing up to five visits before it is detected.
Early accurate diagnosis would, therefore, reduce the number of visits the patient has to make before treatment, thereby avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures and their inherent dangers. This results in better outcomes for patients.
The Edinburgh biomarkers have been clinically validated in a study of women undergoing surgical treatment. A larger patient group study is currently underway.
Key Benefits
- Potential for rapid diagnosis of non-viable extra uterine pregnancies in the first trimester of pregnancy
- Reduces the risk of physiological and psychological damage to the patient
- Could be carried out in the form of a blood / serum test
Applications
- Blood / serum-based test for use in GP surgeries and hospital laboratories
IP Status
- A PCT patent application has been filed on this technology.
The University of Edinburgh is looking for a commercial partner to license this technology to develop a blood / serum-based diagnostic kit.
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