[Pathology of the placenta. V. Circulatory disorders of the placenta. Fetal vascular system]

Discussed are circulatory disorders as well as pathologico-anatomic findings recordable from fetal vessels of the placenta. Thorough reference is first made to obliterative endoarteritis of the greater arteries. Its forms are described, with formal and causative pathogenesis being discussed. Conclusive coverage of causative pathogenesis has proved to be possible only for unambiguously determined inflammatory manifestations (rubella, lues). The second major complex covers alterations to greater and minor fetal vessels which are characterized by central parietal thrombosis (possibly associated with fetal asphyxia) and peripherally disseminated intravasal coagulation (associated with peripartal shock or other conditions). Included in the latter group of alterations are congenital pulmonary hyaline membranes (perhaps also some membranes of postnatal origin) which are, as well, considered as shock equivalent.