Although the purpose and scope of this monograph remain unchanged, I
have been obliged to revise and rewrite many sections to keep pace with
the recent growth in knowledge of endometrial pathology and physiology.
New knowledge emanates from every quarter, engendered by improved meth-
ods of study in virtually every subspecialty, by exemplary cooperation
between disciplines, and especially by the exchange of ideas
internationally. On the other hand, the catalogue of diseases is
everchanging. Some, once common, become rare or even disappear. Others
suddenly appear, unique and previously unknown. Increased longevity,
modern ways of living and new methods of treat- ment have modified or
augmented the clinical and diagnostic problems confront- ing us.
Accordingly, therapy with hormones and intrauterine contraception re-
ceive special attention, commensurate with the importance afforded them
today. Under the precept "nil nocere," the almost unlimited uses for
these agents warrant that their effects be carefully monitored by
precise morphological stud- ies, a prerequisite that succeeds only when
clinician and pathologist cooperate closely. The sections on procedures
for obtaining endometrial tissue, on steroid receptors, on functional
disturbances, and on spontaneous abortion have been changed or expanded
to incorporate new facts from recent discoveries that now appear
significant. Only time, however, will prove their true value. Much of
historical interest in the text has been left intact, for "who wants to
read into the future, must consult the past" (Andre Malraux).
