Placental pathology for the nineties

Examination of the placenta in a problem pregnancy is potentially very valuable, yielding information about the nature and duration of processes occurring in gestation. Such evaluation requires thoughtful gross examination, careful sectioning, and an understanding of the basic microscopic changes in a variety of pathologic processes. As there are very few absolute associations in placental pathology, it is most important to appreciate the range of normal in assessing the potential importance of lesions. This chapter has tried to provide the essential relevant material, with emphasis on commonly encountered problem areas, and a variety of topics potentially related to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.