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fallopian tube ampulla histology plicae H&E normal cross section
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This is a beautifully clear H&E histological section of the fallopian tube (uterine tube) - ampullary region, showing normal histology. Here is a complete breakdown:
Histological Identification: Fallopian Tube - Ampulla (Cross Section)
Stain: Hematoxylin & Eosin (H&E)
Magnification: Low power (~40x)
Key Architectural Features Visible
1. Complex Branching Mucosal Folds (Plicae)
The dominant feature is the elaborate, maze-like network of longitudinal mucosal folds projecting into the central lumen. This labyrinthine appearance is the classic hallmark of the ampullary region specifically - no other segment of the fallopian tube (or any other organ) has this pattern. As confirmed in the textbook: "in cross section [the ampulla] resembles a labyrinth" - Junqueira's Basic Histology, 17e.
2. Layers of the Wall (from inside out)
| Layer | Appearance |
|---|---|
| Mucosa | Thin plicae lined by simple columnar epithelium on loose lamina propria |
| Muscularis (Myosalpinx) | Pink smooth muscle bundles visible at the periphery |
| Serosa | Thin outer connective tissue rim |
3. Epithelium on the Folds
The mucosal folds are lined by simple columnar epithelium containing two cell types (distinguishable at higher power):
- Ciliated columnar cells - beat toward the uterus to transport the oocyte/embryo
- Secretory (peg) cells - nonciliated, darker, secrete nutritive glycoproteins
Why It's the Ampulla (Not Other Regions)
| Region | Mucosal Folds |
|---|---|
| Infundibulum (distal) | Moderate folds + fimbriae |
| Ampulla (this image) | Most complex, numerous, branching = labyrinth |
| Isthmus (proximal) | Minimal folds, thick muscularis |
| Intramural | No folds |
The ampulla constitutes ~2/3 of the total tube length and is the site of fertilization - Histology: A Text and Atlas (Ross & Pawlina).
Pathological Assessment: NORMAL
- No inflammatory infiltrate (no salpingitis)
- No fusion or scarring of the plicae (which would suggest previous PID/adhesions)
- No hyperplasia, atypia, or malignant features
- Delicate, well-formed folds with preserved architecture
Clinical Relevance
- Ectopic (tubal) pregnancy most commonly occurs in the ampulla due to the complex fold architecture, which can trap an embryo
- Salpingitis (infection) damages these folds, causing infertility by disrupting ciliary transport
- The appearance seen here represents the tube in an active hormonal phase, with well-developed folds
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