Decidual reaction

Not to be confused with Decidualization.

Decidual reaction
Sectional plan of the gravid uterus in the third and fourth month.
*Anatomical terminology* [edit on Wikidata]

The decidual reaction is the set of changes in the endometrium of the uterus that prepare it for implantation of an embryo. These changes are observed in each menstrual cycle and enhanced after implantation. These changes include swelling of stromal cells due to accumulation of glycogen and other nutrients. These nutrients help the embryo survive the initial days before the placenta is fully developed, which then establishes a channel for fetus nutrient exchange.

The decidual reaction is seen in very early pregnancy in the generalized area where the blastocyst contacts the endometrial decidua. It consists of an increase in secretory functions of the endometrium at the area of implantation, as well as a surrounding stroma that becomes edematous.^[1]

The decidual reaction occurs only in a few species such as humans. The decidual reaction and decidua are not required for implantation. Evidence can be taken from the fact that in ectopic pregnancy, implantation can occur anywhere in the abdominal cavity. Even after hysterectomy some women have become pregnant.^[2]

References

↑ T. F. Kruger, M. H. Botha. Clinical Gynaecology; page 67. Juta Academic; 3rd edition (September 5, 2008). ISBN 0702173053
↑ Nordqvist, Christian (29 May 2011). "Baby Who Developed Outside The Womb Is Born". Medical News Today. Retrieved 2014-10-20.

External links

Implantation stages Human embryology; developed by the universities of Fribourg, Lausanne and Bern (Switzerland).
Histopathology Uterus – Decidual reaction Microscopic review of decidualization

Human embryogenesis in the first three weeks

Week 1

Week 2
(Bilaminar)

Week 3
(Trilaminar)

Germ layers	Archenteron/Primitive streak Primitive pit Primitive knot/Blastopore Primitive groove Gastrula Gastrulation Regional specification Embryonic disc

Ectoderm	Surface ectoderm Neuroectoderm Somatopleuric mesenchyme Neurulation Neural crest

Endoderm	Splanchnopleuric mesenchyme

Mesoderm	Axial mesoderm Paraxial Somite Somitomere Intermediate Lateral plate Intraembryonic coelom Splanchnopleuric mesenchyme Somatopleuric mesenchyme

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