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Stanek J. Clinical Significance of the Large Fetal Vessel Lesions in Placental Fetal Vascular Malperfusion. J Transl Med 2024; 104:102089. [PMID: 38810837 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2024.102089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM) is an important pattern of placental injury. Although the significance of distal villous FVM (clusters of sclerotic and/or mineralized chorionic villi) is well documented, the clinical significance of proximal (large vessel) lesions of FVM is less clear, which is the aim of this retrospective analysis. To evaluate the clinical significance and placental associations of single and coexisting categories of lesions of large vessel FVM, 24 clinical and 44 placental phenotypes of 804 consecutive placentas with at least 1 lesion of proximal vessel FVM from the second half of pregnancy, divided according to the type or category of the individual FVM lesion (fetal vascular ectasia, fetal vascular thrombi, intramural fibrin deposition, and stem vessel obliteration): 689, 341, 286, and 267 placentas, respectively (first analysis) and single or coexisting large fetal vessel lesions (1, 2, 3, and 4 coexisting categories of lesions: 276, 321, 162, and 45 placentas, respectively) were statistically compared (analysis of variance, χ2, univariate analysis). Because of multiple comparisons, Bonferroni-corrected P < .001 was used as a threshold of statistical significance. In this population of high-risk pregnancies dominated by fetal congenital anomalies, single individual or 1 to 2 coexisting categories of lesions of the large vessel FVM, including fetal vascular thrombi, did not consistently correlate with clinical or placental variables and were not prognostically useful, but the coexistence of 3 or 4 lesions was associated with the most advanced gestational age, fetal congenital anomalies, distal villous FVM, particularly high-grade, chorangioma or chorangiomatosis, hypercoiled umbilical cord, perivascular stem edema, and marginate or vallate placenta. Therefore, the finding of multiple lesions of the large vessel FVM not only merits a diligent search for the distal villous lesions including the CD34 immunostaining, but also justifies putting the large vessel (global) FVM on the final placental diagnosis line, which in the case of up to only 2 lesions may not be justified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerzy Stanek
- Division of Pathology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
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2
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Spinillo A, Dominoni M, Mas FD, Cesari S, Fiandrino G, Gardella B. Placental fetal vascular malperfusion, neonatal neurologic morbidity, and infant neurodevelopmental outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:632-640.e2. [PMID: 37315755 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the association of placental fetal vascular malperfusion lesions with neonatal brain injury and adverse infant neurodevelopmental outcomes. DATA SOURCES PubMed and Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to July 2022. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included cohort and case-control studies reporting the associations of fetal vascular malperfusion lesions with neonatal encephalopathy, perinatal stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, and infant neurodevelopmental and cognitive outcomes. METHODS Data were analyzed by including fetal vascular malperfusion lesions as an exposure variable and brain injuries or neurodevelopmental impairment as outcomes using random-effects models. The effect of moderators, such as gestational age or study type, was assessed by subgroup analysis. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed by applying the Observational Study Quality Evaluation method. RESULTS Out of the 1115 identified articles, 26 were selected for quantitative analysis. The rates of neonatal central nervous system injury (neonatal encephalopathy or perinatal stroke) in term or near-term infants were more common among fetal vascular malperfusion cases (n=145) than among controls (n=1623) (odds ratio, 4.00; 95% confidence interval, 2.72-5.90). In premature deliveries, fetal vascular malperfusion lesions did not influence the risk of intracranial hemorrhage or periventricular leukomalacia (odds ratio, 1.40; 95% confidence interval, 0.90-2.18). Fetal vascular malperfusion-associated risk of abnormal infant neurodevelopmental outcome (314 fetal vascular malperfusion cases and 1329 controls) was modulated by gestational age being higher in term infants (odds ratio, 5.02; 95% confidence interval, 1.59-15.91) than in preterm infants (odds ratio, 1.70; 95% confidence interval, 1.13-2.56). Abnormal infant cognitive development and mental development were more common among fetal vascular malperfusion cases (n=241) than among controls (n=2477) (odds ratio, 2.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.40-3.27). The type of study (cohort vs case-control) did not influence the association between fetal vascular malperfusion and subsequent infant brain injury or abnormal neurodevelopmental outcome. CONCLUSION The findings of cohort and case-control studies indicate a considerable association between fetal vascular malperfusion placental lesions and increased risk of brain injury in term neonates, and neurodevelopmental impairment in both term and preterm infants. A diagnosis of placental fetal vascular malperfusion should be taken into consideration by both pediatricians and neurologists during the follow-up of infants at risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsenio Spinillo
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mattia Dominoni
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Dal Mas
- Department of Management, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Stefania Cesari
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giacomo Fiandrino
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Barbara Gardella
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
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3
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Mooney EE, Crotty E. High-Grade Fetal Vascular Malperfusion Is Associated With Diffuse Chorionic Hemosiderosis. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2022; 25:292-295. [PMID: 34962169 DOI: 10.1177/10935266211064694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diffuse chorionic hemosiderosis (DCH) is an abnormality of the placental membranes characterized by the deposition of iron pigment. It is usually secondary to recurrent venous bleeding in early pregnancy. In many papers, it is associated with pre-term delivery. Fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM) is an abnormality of the feto-placental circulation that may be seen at any stage of gestation, but most often in the third trimester. It may be graded as low grade (LGFVM) or high grade (HGFVM). No link has been identified in the placental literature between DCH and FVM, but we have noted the 2 co-existing in placentas submitted for analysis. This study explored a possible association of these 2 entities. METHODS Laboratory records were searched for singleton cases coded as DCH based on diagnosis on H&E stain over a 6-year period. Of 4478 placentas reported, 66 cases were coded as DCH (1.5%). These were classified as showing HGFVM, LGFVM, or no FVM. Controls (n = 132) were gestational age-matched cases without DCH. Cord length, coiling, insertion, or other abnormalities were noted. Membranes were classified as normal or circumvallate. Results were analyzed using Graphpad. RESULTS Gestation ranged between 16 and 41 weeks gestation. 14/66 (21%) cases of DCH showed HGFVM and 2/66 (3%) showed LGFVM. 16/132 (12%) controls showed HGFVM and 21/132 (15.9%) had LGFVM. Where FVM is present, high-grade FVM is significantly associated with DCH versus controls (P < .0031 Fischer's Test). DISCUSSION HGFVM occurs significantly more often in placentas with DCH than in controls. Both FVM and DCH are associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, and a possible relationship between the 2 remains to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eoghan E Mooney
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, 58003National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emma Crotty
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, 58003National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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Gardella B, Dominoni M, Scatigno AL, Cesari S, Fiandrino G, Orcesi S, Spinillo A. What is known about neuroplacentology in fetal growth restriction and in preterm infants: A narrative review of literature. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:936171. [PMID: 36060976 PMCID: PMC9437342 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.936171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta plays a fundamental role during pregnancy for fetal growth and development. A suboptimal placental function may result in severe consequences during the infant's first years of life. In recent years, a new field known as neuroplacentology has emerged and it focuses on the role of the placenta in fetal and neonatal brain development. Because of the limited data, our aim was to provide a narrative review of the most recent knowledge about the relation between placental lesions and fetal and newborn neurological development. Papers published online from 2000 until February 2022 were taken into consideration and particular attention was given to articles in which placental lesions were related to neonatal morbidity and short-term and long-term neurological outcome. Most research regarding the role of placental lesions in neurodevelopment has been conducted on fetal growth restriction and preterm infants. Principal neurological outcomes investigated were periventricular leukomalacia, intraventricular hemorrhages, neonatal encephalopathy and autism spectrum disorder. No consequences in motor development were found. All the considered studies agree about the crucial role played by placenta in fetal and neonatal neurological development and outcome. However, the causal mechanisms remain largely unknown. Knowledge on the pathophysiological mechanisms and on placenta-related risks for neurological problems may provide clues for early interventions aiming to improve neurological outcomes, especially among pediatricians and child psychiatrists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Gardella
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- *Correspondence: Barbara Gardella,
| | - Mattia Dominoni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Annachiara Licia Scatigno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Cesari
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giacomo Fiandrino
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Simona Orcesi
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Arsenio Spinillo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Hwa Im D, Kim YN, Cho HJ, Park YH, Kim DH, Byun JM, Jeong DH, Lee KB, Sung MS. Placental Pathologic Changes Associated with Fetal Growth Restriction and Consequent Neonatal Outcomes. Fetal Pediatr Pathol 2021; 40:430-441. [PMID: 32056478 DOI: 10.1080/15513815.2020.1723147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate the pathological changes of the placenta to determine the mechanism underlying placenta-derived fetal growth restriction (FGR) and investigate its influence on neonatal outcomes. Study design: This retrospective case-control study included 120 singleton pregnancies with FGR as well as 120 gestational age-matched controls. We compared the placental pathological findings and neonatal outcomes according to the presence of placental malperfusion. Results: The FGR group demonstrated lower placental weight (350.8 ± 118.8 vs. 436.1 ± 109.7g, P < .0001), smaller chorionic plate area (157.7 ± 48.0 vs. 201.5 ± 53.4 cm2, P < .0001), and higher rate of villous change lesions (84.2% vs. 52.5%, P < .0001) than the control group. FGR neonates with placental malperfusion had a higher rate of adverse neonatal outcomes (87.1% vs. 63.2%, P = .0175). Conclusion: Small placentas and placental malperfusion reflected in villous changes are associated with FGR. FGR neonates with placental malperfusion are more susceptible to adverse neonatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do Hwa Im
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Young Nam Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea (the Republic of).,Paik Inje Memorial Institute for Clinical Medicine Research, Pusan, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Hwa Jin Cho
- Department of Pathology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Yong Hee Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Da Hyun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Jung Mi Byun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea (the Republic of).,Paik Inje Memorial Institute for Clinical Medicine Research, Pusan, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Dae Hoon Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea (the Republic of).,Paik Inje Memorial Institute for Clinical Medicine Research, Pusan, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Kyung Bok Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea (the Republic of).,Paik Inje Memorial Institute for Clinical Medicine Research, Pusan, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Moon Su Sung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea (the Republic of)
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6
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Penn AA, Wintermark P, Chalak LF, Armstrong J, Redline R, Scher MS, Nelson KB. Placental contribution to neonatal encephalopathy. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2021; 26:101276. [PMID: 34420894 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2021.101276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Placental assessment, although currently underused, can inform our understanding of the etiology and timing of Neonatal Encephalopathy (NE). We review our current understanding of the links between placental dysfunction and NE and how this information may inform clinical decisions, now and in the future, emphasizing the four major placental lesions associated with NE. In addition, we discuss maternal and fetal factors that are hypothesized to contribute to specific placental pathologies, especially innate or acquired thrombophilias. We outline the importance of assessing placenta across trimesters and after delivery. As this field continues to evolve, currently available placental histopathological examination methods may need to be combined with advanced prenatal molecular and imaging assessments of placenta and be applied in well-designed studies in large representative populations to better define the links between placental dysfunction and NE.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Penn
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - P Wintermark
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montreal, Canada
| | - L F Chalak
- Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA
| | - J Armstrong
- Department of Pediatrics (Section of Child Neurology, Neurology, and OB/GYN), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - R Redline
- Department of Pathology, UH Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - M S Scher
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Neurology, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital/MacDonald Hospital for Women, UH Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - K B Nelson
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
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7
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Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Vaccination in Pregnancy: Measures of Immunity and Placental Histopathology. Obstet Gynecol 2021; 138:281-283. [PMID: 33975329 PMCID: PMC8288194 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Receipt of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination was not associated with placental histopathologic lesions.
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8
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Wave reflections in the umbilical artery measured by Doppler ultrasound as a novel predictor of placental pathology. EBioMedicine 2021; 67:103326. [PMID: 33965347 PMCID: PMC8176120 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The umbilical artery (UA) Doppler pulsatility index is used clinically to detect elevated feto-placental vascular resistance. However, this metric is confounded by variation in fetal cardiac function and is only moderately predictive of placental pathology. Our group developed a novel ultrasound methodology that measures wave reflections in the UA, thereby isolating a component of the Doppler signal that is specific to the placenta. The present study examined whether wave reflections in the UA are predictive of placental vascular pathology. Methods Standard clinical Doppler ultrasound of the UAs was performed in 241 pregnant women. Of these, 40 women met narrowly defined preset criteria for the control group, 36 had maternal vascular malperfusion (MVM) and 16 had fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM). Using a computational procedure, the Doppler waveforms were decomposed into a pair of forward and backward propagating waves. Findings Compared to controls, wave reflections were significantly elevated in women with either MVM (p<0.0001) or FVM pathology (p = 0.02). In contrast, the umbilical and uterine artery pulsatility indices were only elevated in the MVM group (p<0.0001) and there were no differences between women with FVM and the controls. Interpretation The measurement of wave reflections in the UA, combined with standard clinical ultrasound parameters, has the potential to improve the diagnostic performance of UA Doppler to detect placental vascular pathology. Identifying women with FVM pathology is particularly challenging prenatally and future investigations will determine if women at risk of this specific placental disease could benefit from this novel diagnostic technique.
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9
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Ravikumar G, Mascarenhas D, Suman Rao PN, Crasta J. Fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM): diagnostic implications and clinical associations. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 35:4526-4533. [PMID: 33261528 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1854215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM) is diagnosed by the presence of vascular lesions in the muscularized fetal vessels in the placenta and the resultant changes in the downstream villi. The Amsterdam Placental Working Group recognizes two patterns of FVM namely segmental and global. The aim of this study was to estimate the frequency of FVM lesion in our population and to understand its neonatal associations. METHODS Fifty-four placentas with FVM and 56 controls collected over 34 months. The maternal and neonatal details were collected from the case charts. The patterns and grades of FVM lesions were related to the clinical factors and significance analyzed statistically using the Chi-square test and t-test and p < .05 was considered significant. RESULTS The frequency of FVM was 8.7%. The FVM group showed lower mean gestational age, birth weight, and placental weight with a higher frequency of IUGR. Poor neonatal survival, non-reassuring fetal status, neurological abnormalities, neonatal sepsis, asphyxia, low Apgar, and respiratory support requirement were significantly higher in the FVM group. A similar frequency of segmental and global lesions was seen. High grade lesions (n = 35) were common than low grade (n = 19). Neonatal associations were more often seen in segmental and high-grade lesions. DISCUSSION In the absence of antenatal diagnostic tools to identify FVM, placental examination is critical and the only definitive method to diagnose FVM, which alerts the clinician to monitor for several neonatal morbidities. Identification and typing the lesion as per the new guidelines proves significant risk associations with specific types of FVM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri Ravikumar
- Department of Pathology, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore, India
| | - Dwayne Mascarenhas
- Department of Neonatology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bangalore, India
| | - P N Suman Rao
- Department of Neonatology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bangalore, India
| | - Julian Crasta
- Department of Pathology, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore, India
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10
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Geraldo AF, Parodi A, Bertamino M, Buffelli F, Uccella S, Tortora D, Moretti P, Ramenghi L, Fulcheri E, Rossi A, Severino M. Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke in Fetal Vascular Malperfusion: A Case Series and Literature Review. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2020; 41:2377-2383. [PMID: 33122209 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Fetal vascular malperfusion includes a continuum of placental histologic abnormalities increasingly associated with perinatal brain injury, namely arterial ischemic stroke. Here, we describe the clinical-neuroimaging features of 5 neonates with arterial ischemic stroke and histologically proved fetal vascular malperfusion. All infarcts involved the anterior territories and were multiple in 2 patients. In 2 neonates, there were additional signs of marked dural sinus congestion, thrombosis, or both. A mixed pattern of chronic hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and acute infarcts was noted in 1 patient at birth. Systemic cardiac or thrombotic complications were present in 2 patients. These peculiar clinical-radiologic patterns may suggest fetal vascular malperfusion and should raise the suspicion of this rare, underdiagnosed condition carrying important implications in patient management, medicolegal actions, and future pregnancy counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F Geraldo
- From the Units of Neuroradiology (A.F.G., D.T., A.R., M.S.).,Diagnostic Neuroradiology Unit (A.F.G.), Imaging Department, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Portugal
| | - A Parodi
- Neonatal Intensive Care (A.P., L.R.)
| | - M Bertamino
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (M.B., P.M.)
| | - F Buffelli
- Gynaecologic and Fetal-Perinatal Pathology (F.B., E.F.)
| | - S Uccella
- Child Neuropsychiatry (S.U.), IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - D Tortora
- From the Units of Neuroradiology (A.F.G., D.T., A.R., M.S.)
| | - P Moretti
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (M.B., P.M.)
| | - L Ramenghi
- Neonatal Intensive Care (A.P., L.R.).,Departments of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI) (L.R.)
| | - E Fulcheri
- Gynaecologic and Fetal-Perinatal Pathology (F.B., E.F.).,Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Pathology Division of Anatomic Pathology (E.F.)
| | - A Rossi
- From the Units of Neuroradiology (A.F.G., D.T., A.R., M.S.).,Health Sciences (DISSAL) (A.R.), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Severino
- From the Units of Neuroradiology (A.F.G., D.T., A.R., M.S.)
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11
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Zhou YY, Ravishankar S, Luo G, Redline RW. Predictors of High Grade and Other Clinically Significant Placental Findings by Indication for Submission in Singleton Placentas From Term Births. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2020; 23:274-284. [PMID: 32146874 DOI: 10.1177/1093526620904801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Indications for placental submission are variable. Established guidelines are largely based on expert opinion, and there is a need for more evidence-based criteria. A 10-year database of term placentas was used to evaluate indications significantly associated with placental pathology. Lesions in 5 categories were separated into high- and low-grade subgroups. Two additional high-grade lesions were also evaluated. Indications associated with high-grade placental lesions were chronic monitoring abnormalities, severe preeclampsia, pregestational diabetes, maternal signs of infection, postdates pregnancy, artificial reproductive technology, drug abuse, umbilical cord entanglements, selected gross placental abnormalities, stillbirth, Apgar 5 minutes <6, small-for-gestational age infant, and macrosomia. Indications for which placental findings did not differ from the population as a whole were acute monitoring abnormalities, chronic hypertension, maternal obesity, vaginal bleeding, accessory lobe/multilobed placenta, meconium-stained fluid, single umbilical artery, and borderline large-for-gestational age infant. Other indications for submission were intermediate showing significant or borderline elevations in the prevalence of low- and high-grade lesions combined. We suggest on the basis of this study that guidelines for the submission of singleton term placentas could be modified to exclude cases with clinical indications that lack a significant association with placental lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio.,School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Sanjita Ravishankar
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio.,School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Guangju Luo
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio.,School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Raymond W Redline
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio.,School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
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12
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Levy M, Alberti D, Kovo M, Schreiber L, Volpert E, Koren L, Bar J, Weiner E. Placental pathology in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction: recurrence vs. new onset. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2020; 301:1397-1404. [PMID: 32333099 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05546-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In an attempt to shed new light on the pathogenesis of fetal growth restriction (FGR), we aimed to study pregnancy characteristics, neonatal outcomes, and placental histopathological lesions of FGR pregnancies in two different subgroups: when developed after appropriate for gestational age (AGA) pregnancy and when developed after previous pregnancy with FGR. STUDY DESIGN Pregnancy and placental reports of all singleton pregnancies complicated by FGR (defined as actual birthweight below the 10th percentile according to local birthweight nomograms) between 2008 and 2018 were reviewed. Included were only cases with previous delivery. Maternal background, neonatal outcomes, and placental histopathology were compared between FGR that occurred after FGR (recurrent FGR group) and FGR that occurred after an AGA pregnancy (FGR after AGA group). Placental lesions were classified according to the current "Amsterdam" criteria. Continuous variables were compared using the Student's t test or the Mann-Whitney test as appropriate. Categorical variables were compared using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test as appropriate. RESULTS A total of 334 FGR cases with a previous delivery were included in the study. Of them, 111 cases constituted the recurrent FGR group and 223 constituted the FGR after AGA group. The recurrent FGR group was characterized by higher rates of maternal diabetes during pregnancy and hypertensive diseases (9% versus 2.7%, p = 0.01 and 19.8% versus 11.6%, p = 0.04). The FGR after AGA group was characterized by a higher rate of fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM) lesions (29.6% versus 18.0%, p = 0.02), and by lower mean birthweight (1842 ± 424.9 versus 1977.4 ± 412.2, p = 0.005), as compared to the recurrent FGR group. CONCLUSION Recurrent FGR was associated with maternal background morbidities during pregnancy which represents a chronic repeated insult, while "new" FGR cases (those followed an AGA pregnancy) were characterized by a higher rate of FVM lesions and lower birthweight which probably represent an "accident" in placentation. These findings may suggest that different mechanisms of placental dysfunction exist in the two subgroups of FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Levy
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, PO Box 5, 58100, Holon, Israel.
| | | | - Michal Kovo
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, PO Box 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
| | - Letizia Schreiber
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel
| | - Eldar Volpert
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, PO Box 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
| | - Liron Koren
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, PO Box 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
| | - Jacob Bar
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, PO Box 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
| | - Eran Weiner
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, PO Box 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
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Abstract
Placental dysfunction is a major contributing factor to fetal growth restriction. Placenta-mediated fetal growth restriction occurs through chronic fetal hypoxia owing to poor placental perfusion through a variety of mechanisms. Maternal vascular malperfusion is the most common placental disease contributing to fetal growth restriction; however, the role of rare placental diseases should not be overlooked. Although the features of maternal vascular malperfusion are identifiable on placental pathology, antepartum diagnostic methods are evolving. Placental imaging and uterine artery Doppler, used in conjunction with angiogenic growth factors (specifically placenta growth factor and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1), play an increasingly important role.
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Automated segmentation of villi in histopathology images of placenta. Comput Biol Med 2019; 113:103420. [PMID: 31514041 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2019.103420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Manual analysis of clinical placenta pathology samples under the microscope is a costly and time-consuming task. Computer-aided diagnosis might offer a means to obtain fast and reliable results and also substantially reduce inter- and intra-rater variability. Here, we present a fully automated segmentation method that is capable of distinguishing the complex histological features of the human placenta (i.e., the chorionic villous structures). METHODS The proposed pipeline consists of multiple steps to segment individual placental villi structures in hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained placental images. Artifacts and undesired objects in the histological field of view are detected and excluded from further analysis. One of the challenges in our new algorithm is the detection and segmentation of touching villi in our dataset. The proposed algorithm uses the top-hat transformation to detect candidate concavities in each structure, which might represent two distinct villous structures in close proximity. The detected concavities are classified by extracting multiple features from each candidate concavity. Our proposed pipeline is evaluated against manual segmentations, confirmed by an expert pathologist, on 12 scans from three healthy control patients and nine patients diagnosed with preeclampsia, containing nearly 5000 individual villi. The results of our method are compared to a previously published method for villi segmentation. RESULTS Our algorithm detected placental villous structures with an F1 score of 80.76% and sensitivity of 82.18%. These values are substantially better than the previously published method, whose F1 score and sensitivity are 65.30% and 55.12%, respectively. CONCLUSION Our method is capable of distinguishing the complex histological features of the human placenta (i.e., the chorionic villous structures), removing artifacts over a large histopathology sample of human placenta, and (importantly) account for touching adjacent villi structures. Compared to existing methods, our developed method yielded high accuracy in detecting villi in placental images.
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Vik T, Redline R, Nelson KB, Bjellmo S, Vogt C, Ng P, Strand KM, Nu TNT, Oskoui M. The Placenta in Neonatal Encephalopathy: A Case-Control Study. J Pediatr 2018; 202:77-85.e3. [PMID: 30369428 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We assessed whether specific histologic placental lesions were associated with risk for neonatal encephalopathy, a strong predictor of death or cerebral palsy. STUDY DESIGN Case-control study of singletons with gestational ages ≥35 weeks. Data were abstracted from a prospectively collected database of consecutive births at a hospital in which placental samples from specified sites are collected and stored for all inborn infants. Placentas of infants with neonatal encephalopathy were compared with randomly selected control infants (ratio of 1:3). Placental histologic slides were read by a single experienced perinatal pathologist unaware of case status, using internationally recommended definitions and terminology. Findings were grouped into inflammatory, maternal, or fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM) and other lesions. RESULTS Placental samples were available for 73 of 87 (84%) cases and 253 of 261 (97%) controls. Delivery complications and gross placental abnormalities were more common in cases, of whom 4 died. Inflammation and maternal vascular malperfusion did not differ, and findings consistent with global FVM were more frequent in case (20%) than control (7%) placentas (P = .001). There was a trend toward more segmental FVM and high-grade FVM (fetal thrombotic vasculopathy) among cases. Some type of FVM was observed in 24% of placentas with neonatal encephalopathy. In infants with both neonatal encephalopathy and placental FVM, more often than in infants with neonatal encephalopathy without FVM, electronic fetal monitoring tracings were considered possibly or definitely abnormal (P = .028). CONCLUSIONS Vascular malperfusion of subacute or chronic origin on the fetal side of the placenta was associated with increased risk of neonatal encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torstein Vik
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Raymond Redline
- Department of Pathology and Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and University Hospitals, Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH
| | - Karin B Nelson
- National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Solveig Bjellmo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, More and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Aalesund, Norway
| | - Christina Vogt
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Pathology, St Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Pamela Ng
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Kristin Melheim Strand
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Tuyet Nhung Ton Nu
- Department of Pathology, McGill University Health Center, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Maryam Oskoui
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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Redline RW, Ravishankar S. Fetal vascular malperfusion, an update. APMIS 2018; 126:561-569. [PMID: 30129125 DOI: 10.1111/apm.12849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Fetal vascular malperfusion is the most recent term applied to a group of placental lesions indicating reduced or absent perfusion of the villous parenchyma by the fetus. The most common etiology of malperfusion is umbilical cord obstruction leading to stasis, ischemia, and in some cases thrombosis. Other contributing factors may include maternal diabetes, fetal cardiac insufficiency or hyperviscosity, and inherited or acquired thrombophilias. Severe or high grade fetal vascular malperfusion is an important risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes including fetal growth restriction, fetal CNS injury, and stillbirth. Overall recurrence risk for subsequent pregnancies is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond W Redline
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sanjita Ravishankar
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Abstract
CONTEXT - Fetal vascular malperfusion, also known as fetal thrombotic vasculopathy, remains an underrecognized pathologic finding and should be noted during placental evaluation. OBJECTIVE - To review histologic findings, gain familiarity with the updated terminology, and to recognize important clinical associations with this entity. DATA SOURCES - University of Michigan cases, PubMed search, multiple review articles including recent placental workshop group consensus statement, and selected book chapters. CONCLUSIONS - Multiple histologic patterns of fetal vascular malperfusion have been described including thrombosis, avascular villi, villous stromal-vascular karyorrhexis, intramural fibrin thrombi, and stem villous vascular obliteration. Various underlying etiologies can be involved in fetal vascular malperfusion. Cord lesions including abnormal insertion, length, and coiling are important causes. Maternal vascular malperfusion such as preeclampsia, hypercoagulable states, lupus anticoagulant, and sometimes diabetes have been associated with this condition. Fetal cardiac dysfunction/malformations and severe fetal inflammatory response in the setting of ascending intrauterine infection have also been attributed to this important finding. Fetal vascular malperfusion has been implicated in several significant and sometimes devastating clinical associations; these include intrauterine growth restriction, poor perinatal outcome, fetal demise, and neurodevelopmental sequelae. A diagnostic challenge may be encountered in cases with prior intrauterine fetal death, since degenerative changes post demise result in a similar histomorphologic picture. The diffuse versus the focal nature of the lesions may help in the distinction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amer Heider
- From the Department of Pathology Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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Nakayama M. Significance of pathological examination of the placenta, with a focus on intrauterine infection and fetal growth restriction. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2017; 43:1522-1535. [DOI: 10.1111/jog.13430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2017] [Revised: 05/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Nakayama
- Department of Pathology; Osaka Medical Center and Research Institute for Maternal and Child Health; Osaka Japan
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Wylie BJ, Matechi E, Kishashu Y, Fawzi W, Premji Z, Coull BA, Hauser R, Ezzati M, Roberts DJ. Placental Pathology Associated with Household Air Pollution in a Cohort of Pregnant Women from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2017; 125:134-140. [PMID: 27286442 PMCID: PMC5226703 DOI: 10.1289/ehp256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Revised: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Smoke from the burning of biomass fuels has been linked with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as low birth weight, stillbirth, and prematurity. OBJECTIVE To identify potential underlying mechanisms of adverse perinatal outcomes, we explored the association of placental pathology with household air pollution in pregnant women from urban/periurban Tanzania who cook predominantly with charcoal. METHODS Between 2011 and 2013, we measured personal exposures to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and carbon monoxide (CO) over 72 hr among a cohort of Tanzanian pregnant women. Placentas were collected after delivery for examination. Placental pathologies of inflammatory, hypoxic, ischemic/hypertensive, infectious and thrombotic etiologies were diagnosed, blinded to exposure levels. Using multiple logistic regression, we explored the association of PM2.5 and CO exposure with placental pathology. RESULTS One hundred sixteen women had personal air exposure measurements and placental histopathology available for analysis. PM2.5 and CO exposures were moderate [geometric means (GSD) were 40.5 μg/m3 (17.3) and 2.21 ppm (1.47) respectively]; 88.6% of PM2.5 measurements exceeded World Health Organization air quality guidelines. We observed an increase in the odds (per 1-unit increase in exposure on the ln-scale) of fetal thrombotic vasculopathy (FTV) both with increasing PM2.5 [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 5.5; 95% CI: 1.1, 26.8] and CO measurements (aOR = 2.5; 95% CI: 1.0, 6.4) in adjusted models only. FTV also was more common among pregnancies complicated by stillbirth or low birth weight. CONCLUSIONS Fetal thrombosis may contribute to the adverse outcomes associated with household air pollution from cook stoves during pregnancy. Larger studies are necessary for confirmation. Citation: Wylie BJ, Matechi E, Kishashu Y, Fawzi W, Premji Z, Coull BA, Hauser R, Ezzati M, Roberts D. 2017. Placental pathology associated with household air pollution in a cohort of pregnant women from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Environ Health Perspect 125:134-140; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/EHP256.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair J. Wylie
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Address correspondence to B.J. Wylie, Founders 4, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA. Telephone: 617-643-4331. E-mail:
| | | | - Yahya Kishashu
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Zul Premji
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Brent A. Coull
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, and
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Majid Ezzati
- MRC-PHE Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Drucilla J. Roberts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Placental examination: prognosis after delivery of the growth-restricted fetus. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2016; 28:95-100. [PMID: 26825183 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article describes the role of placental examination in the prognostic evaluation of fetal growth restriction (FGR) infants. RECENT FINDINGS A new comprehensive placental classification system was reported. Maternal underperfusion, fetal thrombotic vasculopathy (FTV), villitis (including villitis of unknown etiology and infectious villitis), inflammation, and immature/dysmature villi are important factors affecting FGR prognosis, whereas genomic imprinting is a key factor affecting growth and diseases, as well as placental abnormality. SUMMARY We discuss the role of placental examination in determining FGR prognosis. Maternal underperfusion, fetal thrombotic vasculopathy, and villitis (including villitis of unknown etiology and infectious villitis) are the most important findings affecting FGR prognosis. Although limited, data have suggested an association of inflammation and immature/dysmature villi with postnatal growth in FGR infants. Placental size also contributes postnatally through fetal programming. In addition, placental imprinting can be a key of pre and postnatal growth and diseases, including imprinting disorders, as well as placental abnormalities such as placental mesenchymal dysplasia.
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Peleja AB, Martinelli S, Ribeiro RL, Bittar RE, Schultz R, Francisco RPV. Fetal thrombotic vasculopathy: A case report and literature review. Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992) 2016; 62:687-690. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.62.07.687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Summary Introduction: Fetal thrombotic vasculopathy is a recently described placental alteration with varying degrees of involvement and often associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. The diagnosis is made histologically and therefore is postnatal, which makes it a challenge in clinical practice. Method: Case report and review of literature on the subject. Results: The present case refers to a pregnant woman presenting fetal growth restriction, with poor obstetrical past, and sent late to our service. Even with weekly assessments of fetal vitality (fetal biophysical profile and Doppler velocimetry) and prenatal care, the patient progressed with fetal death at 36 weeks and 1 day. There was no association with inherited and acquired thrombophilia. Pathological examination of the placenta revealed fetal thrombotic vasculopathy. Conclusion: The fetal thrombotic vasculopathy may be associated with adverse perinatal outcomes including fetal death, but much remains to be studied regarding its pathogenesis. Diagnosis during pregnancy is not possible and there is still no proven treatment for this condition. Future studies are needed so that strategies can be developed to minimize the impact of fetal thrombotic vasculopathy.
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Khong TY, Mooney EE, Ariel I, Balmus NCM, Boyd TK, Brundler MA, Derricott H, Evans MJ, Faye-Petersen OM, Gillan JE, Heazell AEP, Heller DS, Jacques SM, Keating S, Kelehan P, Maes A, McKay EM, Morgan TK, Nikkels PGJ, Parks WT, Redline RW, Scheimberg I, Schoots MH, Sebire NJ, Timmer A, Turowski G, van der Voorn JP, van Lijnschoten I, Gordijn SJ. Sampling and Definitions of Placental Lesions: Amsterdam Placental Workshop Group Consensus Statement. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2016; 140:698-713. [PMID: 27223167 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2015-0225-cc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 961] [Impact Index Per Article: 120.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT -The value of placental examination in investigations of adverse pregnancy outcomes may be compromised by sampling and definition differences between laboratories. OBJECTIVE -To establish an agreed-upon protocol for sampling the placenta, and for diagnostic criteria for placental lesions. Recommendations would cover reporting placentas in tertiary centers as well as in community hospitals and district general hospitals, and are also relevant to the scientific research community. DATA SOURCES -Areas of controversy or uncertainty were explored prior to a 1-day meeting where placental and perinatal pathologists, and maternal-fetal medicine specialists discussed available evidence and subsequently reached consensus where possible. CONCLUSIONS -The group agreed on sets of uniform sampling criteria, placental gross descriptors, pathologic terminologies, and diagnostic criteria. The terminology and microscopic descriptions for maternal vascular malperfusion, fetal vascular malperfusion, delayed villous maturation, patterns of ascending intrauterine infection, and villitis of unknown etiology were agreed upon. Topics requiring further discussion were highlighted. Ongoing developments in our understanding of the pathology of the placenta, scientific bases of the maternofetoplacental triad, and evolution of the clinical significance of defined lesions may necessitate further refinements of these consensus guidelines. The proposed structure will assist in international comparability of clinicopathologic and scientific studies and assist in refining the significance of lesions associated with adverse pregnancy and later health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yee Khong
- From SA Pathology, Women's and Children's Hospital, University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, Australia (Dr Khong); the Department of Pathology, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland (Drs Mooney and Kelehan); the Department of Pathology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Mount Scopus, Jerusalem, Israel (Dr Ariel); the Department of Pathology, Kennemer Gasthuis, Haarlem, the Netherlands (Dr Balmus); the Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, and the Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (Dr Boyd); the Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Dr Brundler); the Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom (Ms Derricott); the Department of Pathology, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Dr Evans); the Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, (Dr Faye-Petersen); the Department of Pathology, Rotunda Hospital, Dublin, Ireland (Dr Gillan); the Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences
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Correlation of preterm infant illness severity with placental histology. Placenta 2016; 39:61-9. [PMID: 26992676 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 12/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A major goal of neonatal medicine is to identify neonates at highest risk for morbidity and mortality. Previously, we developed PhysiScore (Saria et al., 2010), a novel tool for preterm morbidity risk prediction. We now further define links between overall individual morbidity risk, specific neonatal morbidities, and placental pathologies. METHODS 102 placentas, including 38 from multiple gestations, were available from the previously defined PhysiScore cohort (gestational age ≤ 34 weeks and birth weight ≤ 2000 g). Placentas were analyzed for gross and histologic variables including maternal malperfusion, amniotic fluid infection sequence, chronic inflammation, and fetal vascular obstruction. Risk as determined by PhysiScore and recorded neonatal morbidities were tested for statistical association with placental findings. RESULTS In pair-wise correlations, respiratory distress syndrome, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, acute hemodynamic instability, post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus, culture-positive sepsis, and necrotizing enterocolitis each significantly correlated with at least one placenta histology variable. Amniotic fluid infection sequence (p = 0.039), specifically the fetal inflammatory response (p = 0.017), correlated with higher PhysiScores (greater morbidity) but was not independent of gestational age and birth weight. In multivariate analyses correlating variables with all nine morbidities, gestational age (p < 0.001), placental size <10th percentile (p = 0.031), full thickness perivillous fibrin deposition (p = 0.001), and amniotic fluid infection sequence (umbilical arteritis, p = 0.031; ≥2 chorionic plate vessels with vasculitis, p = 0.0125), each were significant associations. DISCUSSION Amniotic fluid infection sequence plays a significant role in neonatal morbidity. Less neonatal morbidity was observed in older and heavier infants and those with small placental size and full thickness perivillous fibrin deposition. The combined assessment of placental gross and histologic findings together with physiologic risk evaluation may allow more precise prediction of neonatal morbidity risk soon after delivery.
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Chisholm KM, Folkins AK. Placental and Clinical Characteristics of Term Small-for-Gestational-Age Neonates: A Case-Control Study. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2016; 19:37-46. [PMID: 26368794 DOI: 10.2350/15-04-1621-oa.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Numerous conditions, including placental vascular compromise, can lead to small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants. As few studies have investigated primarily term placentas from SGA infants, we compared placentas from 67 SGA infants to placentas from 67 infants with appropriate weights for gestational age (AGA) in this population, matched for gestational age and gender. Placental histology was reviewed and electronic records were queried for maternal and fetal birth data, infant morbidities, and infant follow-up weights. Comparison of these 2 cohorts showed that placentas from SGA infants were more likely to have smaller weights and thinner umbilical cords than those from AGA infants. SGA placentas had a significant increase in another uteroplacental malperfusion feature: single and multiple infarctions. Rates of preeclampsia, infant cardiac anomalies, and infant genetic abnormalities were not statistically different between groups. Fetal and maternal inflammatory responses, nongestational diabetes, and gestational hypertension were more common in the controls, but these are common indications for placental examination. No statistical differences were present for decidual vasculopathy, chronic villitis, intervillous thrombi, or meconium. More SGA neonates had hypoglycemia compared to their AGA counterparts. SGA infants tended to have decreased weights up to 7 months of age; however, the low number of infants with follow-up limited the statistical significance. This study confirms that small placental size and select features of uteroplacental malperfusion are more common in SGA versus AGA term placentas. The lack of other significant differences may be due to the inclusion of only term infants, with more severe pathology leading to preterm delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M Chisholm
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ann K Folkins
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Redline RW. Classification of placental lesions. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 213:S21-8. [PMID: 26428500 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.05.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 282] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Revised: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Placental pathology can be useful in a variety of ways including immediate diagnosis of important conditions affecting the mother or infant, identifying conditions that are likely to recur in subsequent pregnancies, separating clinical syndromes into distinct pathological phenotypes for further investigation, and uncovering the underlying cause of unexpected adverse outcomes. Classification of placental lesions has evolved from being a purely descriptive exercise through a stage in which the major pathophysiological processes such as disorders of maternal implantation and the amniotic fluid infection syndrome were first described to a recently proposed comprehensive classification system that includes all of the major maternal and fetal vascular and infectious and idiopathic/immune inflammatory processes (Amsterdam Placental Workshop Group). Implementation of this unified system with reproducible grading and staging should help establish evidence-based recommendations for placental submission and facilitate progress in studying the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of obstetric disorders with an underlying placental etiology.
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