Comparative histomophometric differences between umbilical cords from normal and pre-eclamptic pregnancies

Histomorphometric Analysis of Umbilical Arteries in Preeclampsia

“…[9] Similar to the previous study, a significant increase in the diameter and luminal area of the umbilical artery at the placental and fetal ends was observed in the present study. In contrast to the present study, Inan et al (2002) and Jain et al (2016), demonstrated a reduced luminal area and wall thickness in preeclampsia owing to vasoconstriction and hypoplasia. [6,8] On the contrary, Almasry et al (2016) described a thicker arterial wall concomitant with a narrow lumen as a result of proliferation of smooth muscle cells.…”

“…In contrast to the present study, Inan et al (2002) and Jain et al (2016), demonstrated a reduced luminal area and wall thickness in preeclampsia owing to vasoconstriction and hypoplasia. [6,8] On the contrary, Almasry et al (2016) described a thicker arterial wall concomitant with a narrow lumen as a result of proliferation of smooth muscle cells. [14] It has been assumed that the modifications in these histomorphometric parameters could be the result of placental hypoxia, a key pathological factor in preeclampsia.…”

“…Hyaluronic acid, the main constituent of the glycosaminoglycans, is replaced by sulfated proteoglycans, thus, resulting in reduced Wharton's jelly content as well as hydration in preeclampsia. [8] A reduction in the volume of the jelly would, in turn, lead to altered hemodynamics that further result in compromised blood flow and intrauterine growth retardation. [13] Blanco et al (2010) reported a wider arterial lumen in umbilical cords of preeclamptic patients that was attributed to the decreased responsiveness of smooth muscle cells to a high stretch.…”

“…[14] It has been assumed that the modifications in these histomorphometric parameters could be the result of placental hypoxia, a key pathological factor in preeclampsia. [8] The consequences of diminished oxygen tension on various blood vessels have been studied earlier.…”

“…A reduction, [6,7] as well as, augmentation of the arterial lumen has been reported in literature. [8,9] The change in calibre as well as the structure of the vessels can influence the rate of blood flow and in turn, the fetal circulation. Hence, the present study was carried out to evaluate the morphological changes in the umbilical arteries by histological examinations.…”