Vascular structure of outer myometrial uterine leiomyomata - a preliminary SEM and immunohistochemical study.

ABSTRACT

AIM: The main goal of this study was assessment of vascular structure of uterine leiomyomata localized between outer myometrium and endometrium. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was carried out on thirty two human uteri collected upon autopsy. Vessels were injected with synthetic resin, next corroded and coated with gold, finally observed using scanning electron microscope. Next ten uteri were injected with acrylic emulsion and studies using immunohistochemical staining for von Willebrandt's factor. RESULTS: Vascular structure of outer myometrial leiomyomata was quite similar to those observed in the middle of muscular layer of uterus, characterized by relatively dense 'vascular capsule', consisted of flattened vein, arterioles and capillaries. CONCLUSIONS: Structure of outer myometrial uterine leiomyomata was similar to those observed during growth within myometrium.