Findings

In this higher-power view of the endometrium, the demarcation between the lighter-staining stratum functionalis and the darker-staining stratum basalis is evident. Note also the tubular uterine glands lined by basophilic simple columnar epithelium and surrounded by connective tissue.

Comment

The proliferative phase of the endometrium is characterized by the presence of straight uterine glands. This phase takes place during the period of growth and maturation of the ovarian follicle. As ovarian follicles mature, they secrete increased amounts of estrogen that stimulate regeneration, proliferation and growth of the functional layer of the endometrium that was sloughed during menstruation.

Preparation

Paraffin section, hematoxylin and eosin

View

Medium-power light microscopy

Specimen

Uterus

Image Credit

Katsumi M. Miyai, M.D., Ph.D
Department of Pathology
School of Medicine
University of California, San Diego