[Importance of histopathological examination of the placenta].

Histopathological examinations of the placenta can reveal ischemic changes, inflammation of the placenta and fetal membranes, and changes indicating fetal anemia. These may be a threat to the fetus or cause later complications during childhood. Chronic villositis is caused by a maternal rejection reaction against fetal antigens. This rejection may cause retardation of fetal growth. Early preeclampsia causes severe ischemic changes to the placenta. The placenta should always be examined if the growth of the fetus is abnormal, if the fetus is stillborn, if the neonate exhibits a congenital disease, or in cases of suspected infection.