Intermediate trophoblast

Intermediate trophoblast is a type of trophoblast that is intermediate in morphology and function between the cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast. It is found in the chorionic villi and extravillous trophoblast.

Morphology

The intermediate trophoblast is characterized by a large, round or polygonal shape with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm. The nuclei are round to oval and have a coarse chromatin pattern with prominent nucleoli. The cells are often arranged in clusters or sheets.

Function

The intermediate trophoblast plays a crucial role in the invasion of the endometrium and the remodeling of the uterine spiral arteries. It also contributes to the formation of the placental bed and the chorionic villi.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the intermediate trophoblast can lead to various pregnancy-related disorders, such as preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and placental abruption. In addition, intermediate trophoblasts are the cells of origin for some types of gestational trophoblastic disease, including invasive mole and choriocarcinoma.

See also

• Trophoblast
• Cytotrophoblast
• Syncytiotrophoblast
• Chorionic villi
• Extravillous trophoblast
• Endometrium
• Uterine spiral arteries
• Placental bed
• Preeclampsia
• Intrauterine growth restriction
• Placental abruption
• Gestational trophoblastic disease
• Invasive mole
• Choriocarcinoma

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  Intermediate trophoblast - high magnification
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  Intermediate trophoblast - LMWK - high magnification