[Heterotopic cartilage tissue in the uterus. Report of 2 cases and review of the literature].

The occurrence of heterotopic cartilage islands (HKI) in the uterus wall is a rare event. So far, less than 50 cases have been reported. The present paper describes two additional cases and renders a review of the pertinent literature. The following topics are discussed: epidemiology, localization, morphology, clinical findings, etiology and pathogenesis. The vast majority of the HKI will result from displacement and retention of fetal tissues in the uterine wall. In exceptional cases, a development of HKI due to metaplasia may be discussed.