Female Histology 6 Flashcards
Describe the unique histological features of the vagina and the histological basis of interpreting a PAP smear.
1
Q
What are the layers of the vagina?
A
- mucosa
- muscularis
- adventitia
- **retroperitoneal so no serosa
2
Q
Describe the general histology of the vagina.
A
-
Epithelium is non-keratinized, stratified squamous
- cells swell with glycogen in response to rising estrogen levels
- glycogen washes out during preparation to give cells a washed-out appearance
- Distinctive appearance with pyknotic (small and condensed) nuclei
- Lamina propria is loose connective tissue with an extensive network of veins
-
No glands and little sensory innervation
- what appears to be glands are interconnected venous channels
- function similar to erectile tissue
- during arousal, fluid passes from epithelium into vaginal lumen
3
Q
Describe the histological features of cervical cancer found in PAP smears.
A
- slow-growing tumors found near epithelial transition zone
- cancer cell nuclei enlarge, beginning in deeper layers
- often see many neutrophils