5 topics with brief reviews: definitions, key facts, and class questions.
In this chapter, we examine conditions where the physiological process of fetal gestation turns into a life-threatening pathology. You will study the morphological changes underlying major obstetric and gynecological complications.
The section covers five key topics: ectopic pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, gestoses (including preeclampsia and eclampsia), trophoblastic disease (ranging from hydatidiform mole to choriocarcinoma), and placental pathology. Each article contains clear macroscopic and microscopic diagnostic criteria.
During practical classes and exams, instructors traditionally focus on micropreparations. Be prepared to look for chorionic villi in the fallopian tube wall, describe trophoblast proliferation in hydatidiform mole, and explain the pathogenesis of fibrinoid necrosis and hemorrhages in the liver during eclampsia. Understanding these processes is critical for your future clinical practice.
Where is ectopic pregnancy most commonly localized?
In 95–99% of cases, the fertilized ovum implants in the fallopian tubes. Extremely rarely, it occurs in the ovaries, abdominal cavity, or cervix.
What is the essence of the pathogenesis of gestosis at the tissue level?
The essence lies in impaired trophoblast invasion, as a result of which spiral arteries fail to transform, retain their muscular layer and narrow lumen, leading to placental ischemia.
What is the difference between preeclampsia and classic baseline gestosis?
In preeclampsia, severe headache and visual disturbances join the standard triad of symptoms (edema, hypertension, proteinuria). These signs indicate progressive cerebral circulation disorders.
Is invasive growth of villi into the myometrium a sign of cancer?
No, invasive growth in hydatidiform mole is not a sign of true malignancy, since normal trophoblast also possesses the ability to deeply penetrate the myometrium.
Master the entire topic in the "Pathological Anatomy" course
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4,414 pages of study guides covering all topics
Assignments and quizzes after every topic — just like in a colloquium