The human uterotubal junction: a scanning electron microscope study during different phases of the menstrual cycle.

ABSTRACT

Uterotubal junctions from surgically extirpated human uteri were examined. The specimens were obtained during different phases of the menstrual cycle. The interstitial portions of the tubes together with the cornual areas were dissected, excised, and their luminal surfaces exposed. The specimens were then processed for scanning electron microscopy. The surface epithelium of both the cornual endometrium and interstitial endosalpins. Ciliated cells were more numerous in the endosalpinx. Cyclic changes in ciliated cells were minimal, while cyclic secretory activity was demonstrated, especially in the endometrium. The transitional area between the endometrium and the endosalpinx was characterized by a marked increase in the number of ciliated cells, and a tendency of the secretory cells to assume a flattened, polygonal shape. These morphologic features suggest a possible role in the transport and/or maintenance of spermatozoa and/or ova.

ABSTRACT

PIP Uterotubal junctions from hysterectomy specimens, obtained at different phases of the menstrual cycle, were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Ciliated and secretory cells, with common morphologic characteristics, were observed in the surface epithelium of both the cornual endometrium and interstitial endosalpinx, with ciliated cells being dominant in number in the endosalpinx. Changes in ciliated cells were minimal during the menstrual cycle, though secretory cell act ivity was apparent, particularly in the endometrium. A considerable inc rease in the number of ciliated cells was observed in the transitional area between the endosalpinx and the endometrium. There was also a tendency of the secretory cells to assume a flattened, polygonal shape in the same region. The observed changes are suggestive of a possible role of the uterotubal junction in the transport of maintenance of spermatozoa or ova.