Pathology Handbook

Histology - Placenta Examination (Sendaway Test)

Placentas for histological examination are registered by Anatomical Pathology. Any associated culture swabs should be referred to CSP for registration.

A placenta received in conjunction with a foetus (>15 weeks) or neonate must be referred to the Royal Womens Hospital Perinatal Autopsy Service for examination.

The placenta should be sent for pathological examination in all cases of foetal death, and where possible for all early neonatal deaths. Cultures should be taken from the foetal surface of the placenta in cases of actual or suspected infection.

The placenta should also be sent for pathological examination in any of the following circumstances:

• neonatal hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy
• small for gestational age
• pre-term delivery under 34 weeks
• antepartum haemorrhage
• suspected chorioamnionitis
• diabetes
• preeclampsia
• macroscopic placental abnormalities.