Electron Microscopic Study of the Effects of Preeclampsia on the Placental Endothelial Cells Ultra Structures during Pregnancy

Abstract

Background: Preeclampsia occurs in 3-5% of
pregnancies and is a major cause (12-20 %) of
maternal mortality in developed countries. It is the
leading cause of preterm birth and intra-uterine
growth restrictions (IUGR).
Objective: The study was designed to determine and
demonstrate the ultra structural changes of
endothelial cells in placenta of women suffering from
hypertensive disease.
Patients & Methods: Placental samples were
obtained from two groups of pregnant women
groups (preeclamptic and normal pregnant women).
The specimens were fixed in 2.5% gluteraldehyde
and preceded for electron microscopic examination.
Results: Placenta of women with preeclampsia has
shown marked degenerative changes in both
endothelial and trophoblastic cells. These changes
were represented by precipitation of fibrin with the
accumulation of platelets in capillary lumen.
Abundance of collagen fibers precipitate in the apical
region of both endothelial cells and trophoblasts, with
thickening of endothelial basement membrane.
Conclusion: All histological changes or lesions
obstruct the continuous conduction from maternal
surface of the trophoblasts through fetal capillary
endothelium causing endothelial dysfunction