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
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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
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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
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