Histomorphometric and Immunohistochemical Comparison of Placental Tissue of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Normal Pregnancy

Objective: To evaluate and compare placental histomorphometric and immunohistochemical parameters in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) versus normal pregnancies, focusing on villous diameter, collagen deposition, CD117+ telocyte characteristics, and CD68+ Hofbauer cell profiles. Material and methods: Placental samples were collected from 100 GDM and 100 normal pregnancies. Sections were stained with Van Gieson to assess collagen deposition and with immunohistochemical markers CD117 and CD68 to identify telocytes and Hofbauer cells, respectively. Ocular micrometry at 400´ magnification measured villous diameter, collagen thickness, telocyte length, immunostaining intensity, and cell counts. Results: GDM placentas showed significantly increased villous diameter and collagen deposition (p < 0.05). CD117+ telocytes demonstrated reduced length and staining intensity, indicating stromal remodeling and impaired intercellular communication. CD68+ Hofbauer cell counts and intensity scores were altered, suggesting modified immune regulation in diabetic placentas. These findings indicate both structural and functional compromise in GDM-associated placental tissue. Conclusions: Placental tissues from GDM pregnancies exhibit distinct histomorphometric and immunohistochemical alterations, including increased villous diameter, collagen fibrosis, reduced telocyte length, and variable Hofbauer cell profiles. Ocular micrometry combined with Van Gieson and immunohistochemical staining is an effective method for assessing these changes, providing insight into GDM-related placental pathology.