الفهرس | Only 14 pages are availabe for public view |
Abstract The placenta is a dynamic organ which is unique in its development and functions. It is the only organ in the body which is derived from two separate individuals, the mother and the foetus. It is vital for respiratory, nutritional, excretory, endocrinal and immunological functions of the foetus. The placenta is a functional unit between the mother and the fetus. Therefore, any pathological event concerning the mother orthe fetus may inf luence the normal function of the placenta, occasionally resulting in morphological changes. Severe abnormalities of the placenta may lead to adverse fetal outcome. However, placental lesions are not necessarily the cause of unfavourable obstetric outcome, and some structural changes may be the consequences of poor fetal condition. Most authorities agree that routine placental examination by a pathologist is not indicated, lthough there is still debate as to which placentas should be submitted. The College of American Pathologists recommends routine examination for an extensive list of indications. Using these guidelines, it is computed that 37 percent of all placentas would be submitted |