The placenta in hematogenous infections.

Although congenital infections have been known since ancient times, at present they constitute an evolution due to the broadening of diagnostic methods. Also, the histopathological examination of selected placentas has increased in perinatal pathology. All placentas should be examined grossly by the obstetrician or the neonatologist who must select the specimens to be sent for pathologic examination. The indications for selection at delivery to detect hematogenous infection are listed in Table 1. The placentas that do not meet guidelines for pathologic examination must be kept stored at 40 degrees C for at least 72 h. This routine ensures that the placentas of asymptomatic newborns who might present early manifestations suggestive of infection would be submittedfor pathologic examination.