Anatomical and Histopathologic Analysis of Placenta in Dilation and Evacuation Specimens

Abstract

Background: Anatomical and histopathologic examination of placenta in cases of abortion is crucial as to clarify the underlying causes of many adverse pregnancy outcomes. Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is the most common mode of uterine evacuation that commonly examined in pathology sections. The aim of this study is to discuss the various placental pathologies, and to demonstrate the importance of careful pathologic examination of D&E material, also to review the anatomy of placenta and to compare our findings with other publications worldwide. Material and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study for 200 placental tissues was collected in 18 months period and revised for normal anatomy and various placental pathologies. These placentas were obtained by dilation and evacuation (D&E) technique. All cases were undergone for histopathological sections that were stained by Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E). Results: Placental infarction was observed in 25% of cases, and chorioammnitis was the most common form of placental infection and found in 12.5%. Molar changes were represented a lowered percentage of placental pathologies that found in 9% of specimens. Conclusion: Study and recognition of placental lesions among general surgical pathologists have clinical significance and awareness of deficiency, standardization of diagnostic criteria, and increased knowledge in placental pathology improve the quality of diagnosis in this area.