What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Placental Squamous Metaplasia

What is Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta? (Definition/Background Information)

• Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta is a common benign condition wherein there is squamous epithelium on the fetal surface of placenta and umbilical cord
• A metaplasia is defined as the change of one type of epithelium to another type of epithelium. Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta is not a true metaplasia. The squamous epithelium in this benign condition is more mature and hence, easily recognizable under a microscope
• The placenta is an organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall. It is a disc shaped reddish brown structure that connects the fetus to the mother through the umbilical cord. The umbilical cord contains two umbilical arteries and one umbilical vein
• The normal function of placenta is to supply nutrients and oxygen to the fetus from the mother’s blood and remove wastes from the fetal body
• There are no risk factors or causative factors associated with Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta
• There are also no significant signs and symptoms or complications associated with Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta. The presence of the condition does not affect either the mother or baby
• Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta has no clinical significance and so the prognosis is typically excellent

Who gets Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta is found in over 60% of the placentas from a full-term pregnancy (40 weeks)
• The condition is generally not observed in immature placentas, when the pregnancy period is less than 32 weeks

What are the Risk Factors for Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta
• Research is being performed to identify the relevant risk factors

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta is currently unknown.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta?

No significant signs and symptoms are associated with Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta.

How is Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta Diagnosed?

• A diagnosis of Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta is made during placental examination under a microscope by the pathologist
• It cannot be detected using radiological studies during pregnancy

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta?

There are no complications associated with Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta.

How is Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta Treated?

No specific treatment is necessary for Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta, since the condition is not associated with any signs and symptoms, either in the expectant mother or in the developing baby.

How can Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta be Prevented?

Currently, there are no definitive methods available to prevent Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta.

What is the Prognosis of Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta is a common condition that has an excellent prognosis. It has no clinical significance.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta:

Squamous Metaplasia of Placenta is typically detected when a pathologist examines the placental tissue for some other reason. This may be mentioned on a pathology report, but one need not be concerned or worried about it.