The Status of Interstitial Cells of Cajal in Fallopian Tubes with Ectopic Pregnancy

Aims: To study the numbers and distribution of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) in fallopian tubes (FTs) with ectopic gestation in comparison to normal FTs.

Study Design: Interstitial cells of Cajal were studied in normal FTs and FTs with ectopic gestation by immunohistochemistry using anti c-kit antibody.

Place and Duration of Study: Imperial College London, Department of Histopathology, Hammersmith Hospital, London, between April 2012 and August 2012.

Methodology: In this study we investigated the numbers and distribution of interstitial cells of Cajal in 50 FTs with ectopic gestation and in normal FTs from 25 patients. Interstitial cells of Cajal were highlighted by immunohistochemistry using anti c-kit antibody.

Results: Numbers of ICCs were significantly reduced in the muscularis and lamina propria of FTs with ectopic gestation as compared to normal FTs (P value: <0.001). In FTs with ectopic gestation the numbers of ICCs were significantly reduced at the implantation site when compared to areas away from the implantation site (P value = 0.003). There was no significant change in ICC numbers or distribution with patient age.

Conclusion: There is significant decrease in numbers of ICCs in FTs with ectopic gestation, which may compromise the motility of the FTs and hence transport of the gametes and embryo to the uterine cavity, predisposing to tubal implantation and ectopic gestation.