Immature placenta with villitis due to Toxoplasma infection
Clinical story
34 years old female, 13 weeks pregnant. Toxoplasma gondii infection detected. An induced abortion was carried out.
Comments
Immature placental tissue with increased trophoblastic proliferation is seen. Many villi show fibrosis. Small necroses with neutrophilic infiltration can be seen in scattered villi. Parasites are difficult to find, but are present as small cysts with basophilic (blue) dots. (Immunohistochemical examination with antibodies against toxoplasma gondii identifies scattered parasites more easily.)
Learning goals
To recognize blood born infections in the placenta.