Normal fetal growth and survival depends on proper development and function of the placenta. The diabetic pregnancy is characterized by numerous disturbances in fetal growth and development. This Intermediate Level article takes a look at the diabetic placenta and compares it to a normal placenta through staining patterns and other histological differences.

At the completion of this course the reader will be able to:

1. Describe the placenta recalling its normal pathology.
2. Describe the method of placental tissue preparation and the various stains used for review and comparison.
3. Discuss the differences seen between the diabetic and normal placenta tissue.
4. Recall different staining patterns for each type of special stain used for review.
5. Recall the histopathological differences between the diabetic and normal placenta tissue.