BGDA Practical - Placenta and Fetal Membranes
Introduction
From implantation through the remainder of prenatal development the parts of the conceptus that did not contribute to the embryo now develop and differentiate in parallel to form the embryonic placenta and the fetal membranes. Remember that the placenta has a dual origin from both fetal and maternal contributions.
| Practical 3 - Fertilization to Implantation | Practical 7 - Implantation to 8 Weeks | Practical 12 - Fetal Period |
Clinically, the placenta is first observed by ultrasound and both the site of formation and its development are critical to fetal development. The placenta and the fluid within the fetal membranes, are an important diagnostic tool for the genetic status of the fetus. At birth, in recent years, the cells derived from the placental cord are now an important source of “cord stem cells”. These will eventually have many clinical therapeutic applications.
Aim
To understand the development, anatomy and histology of the placenta and the fetal membranes.
Key Concepts
Implantation, uterine changes (endometrium to decidua), early placentation (cytotrophoblast and syncitiotrophoblast cells), villi development, placental cord, placental function, placental membranes, abnormalities.
Practical Class Note
- The term used when referring to the cord arteries and vein can be placental or umbilical.
- Material under the heading "Additional Information" on each page is not part of today's practical and is provided as supporting information only.
BGDA: Lecture 1 | Lecture 2 | Practical 3 | Practical 6 | Practical 12 | Lecture Neural | Practical 14 | Histology Support - Female | Male | Tutorial
Glossary Links
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Cite this page: Hill, M.A. (2024, April 18) Embryology BGDA Practical - Placenta and Fetal Membranes. Retrieved from https://embryology.med.unsw.edu.au/embryology/index.php/BGDA_Practical_-_Placenta_and_Fetal_Membranes
- © Dr Mark Hill 2024, UNSW Embryology ISBN: 978 0 7334 2609 4 - UNSW CRICOS Provider Code No. 00098G
