Quantitative study of uterine curettage in the menstrual cycle

The histological appearances in 114 endometrial curettings from cases of dysfunctional bleeding have been analysed quantitatively by the method of Dunnill and Whitehead (1972) and Risdon and Keeling (1974). As applied to this type of specimen, the technique provides indices of both tubular volume and tubular surface to volume ratio. The histological diagnosis of endometrial hyperplasia is made from the increase in stromal and epithelial elements and the change in the pattern of the glands. These changes, on some occasions, can be difficult to detect. Quantitative analysis can be used to distinguish minor degrees of abnormal endometrial hyperplasia, in comparing serial endometrial changes in a given patient, and in comparing different menstrual cycles in dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Endometrial biopsies were collected and put in categories according to the clinical diagnosis. These biopsies were then examined morphometrically to find the volume/glandular surface and glandular/volume ratio. A significant change in these ratios was found.