The stromal architecture of the immature intermediate villus of the human placenta. Functional and clinical implications.

Scanning electron microscopy of cryofractured immature intermediate villi showed numerous intercommunicating channels in the central region of the stroma, oriented mostly parallel to the major axis of the villus. In the stromal channels, numerous Hofbauer cells were present and their aspect and position inside the channels highly suggested a motility of these cells. These morphological data strongly support the fundamental role played by the immature intermediate villus in the normal and pathological development of the human placenta.