The level of human decidua-associated protein (hDP) 200, identified as a monoclonal rheumatoid factor in the fallopian tube

PROBLEM: The aim of this study was to examine whether ectopic pregnancy is associated with increased levels of human decidua-associated protein (hDP) 200, identified as a monoclonal rheumatoid factor, in the related fallopian tube as compared with normal tubes. METHOD OF STUDY: Tubal fluid samples were obtained prospectively from two g roups of patients: group I, 20 patients admitted for total abdominal hyster ectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (TAH and BSO); group II, 14 wome n with ectopic pregnancy, undergoing unilateral salpingectomy by laparoscop y or laparotomy. hDP 200 was assayed using double-site enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay. RESULTS: Very low levels of hDP 200 were found in normal tubes, while tubes with ectopic pregnancy demonstrated significantly higher levels of tubal f luid hDP 200 (P < 0.00001). In addition, in women with ectopic pregnancy, t he uterine fluid level of hDP 200 was significantly lower than the level of hDP 200 in the tube containing ectopic pregnancy (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The increased level of hDP 200 (a monoclonal rheumatoid factor) in the tube containing ectopic pregnancy, as compared with uterine cavity and normal tubes, might be associated with the implantation site of the pre gnancy.