What is the most likely diagnosis for a 30-year-old female presenting with pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, and an adnexal mass?

Study for the Physician Assistant Clinical Knowledge Rating and Assessment Tool (PACKRAT) 5 Test. Use our interactive quizzes with hints and explanations to get exam-ready!

The presentation of pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, and an adnexal mass in a 30-year-old female is most suggestive of an ectopic pregnancy. This condition occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity, most commonly in the fallopian tube. The combination of pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding is a key clinical manifestation of ectopic pregnancy, and the presence of an adnexal mass further supports this diagnosis, as it may represent the location of the ectopic tissue.

In this scenario, the woman’s age and the symptoms align well with the risk factors and clinical picture typically associated with an ectopic pregnancy. Early recognition is critical, as an ectopic pregnancy can lead to significant complications, such as rupture and internal bleeding if not diagnosed and managed promptly.

In contrast, the other potential diagnoses would have different presentations or characteristics. A placental abruption typically occurs during the third trimester of pregnancy and is associated with abdominal pain and bleeding, but not with an adnexal mass in a non-pregnant state. Pelvic inflammatory disease generally presents with a range of symptoms including fever and possibly purulent discharge, and while it can cause pelvic pain, it is less likely to present with a discrete adnexal mass. A

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy