Significance of pathological examination of the placenta, with a focus on intrauterine infection and fetal growth restriction.

Chorioamnionitis (CAM) is associated with abortion, premature labor and neonatal disorders. In this condition, precise pathological diagnosis of the placenta is very important. Besides histological examination, macroscopic examination of the placenta is indispensable. Diagnostic points and complications of CAM are emphasized in this paper. Blanc's classification (revised by Nakayama) is introduced for the accurate determination of CAM stage. Principles of classification based on the causes of fetal growth restriction (FGR) (mainly resulting from placental pathology) are also described. Children born with FGR have high disease-related morbidity. In these cases, placental examination can be a useful prognostic tool. Placental pathology is associated not only with the underlying cause of FGR, but also with infant prognosis.