• 1 January 1984
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 139  (DEC) , 691-708
Abstract
A combination of stereology and physiology is used to estimate the morphometric diffusing capacity for O2 of normal human placenta at term. The morphometric diffusing capacity is higher than published values determined by physiological methods. The most likely explanation for this discrepancy is that physiological values are too low because of the effects of shunts, placental O2 consumption and uneven diffusion:perfusion ratios. Being non-invasive, morphometry of histological sections offers a valuable and practicable alternative for comparing the functional capacities of placenta in different experimental groups.