Gynaecological pathology

Abstract This chapter on gynaecological pathology encompasses a wide spectrum of conditions affecting the female reproductive system. It begins by detailing vulval disorders, many of which represent inflammatory and infectious skin conditions. Vulval carcinoma is rare but important, with the vast majority being squamous cell carcinomas. Vaginal disorders are mostly inflammatory or infectious in aetiology with vaginal carcinoma being very rare. Cervical carcinoma is covered in depth, being one of the more common gynaecological malignancies. The vast majority are squamous cell carcinomas caused by high risk HPV infection. Benign uterine disorders including endometriosis and leiomyomas are discussed. Endometrial carcinoma is covered in detail including molecular pathways of carcinogenesis and the range of histopathological subtypes of carcinoma. Non-neoplastic ovarian disorders including functional ovarian cysts and polycystic ovarian syndrome are explored. The wide and diverse spectrum of benign and malignant ovarian tumours are covered in detail. Additionally, the chapter addresses important gestational conditions including ectopic pregnancy, hydatidiform moles, and pre-eclampsia.