We shall subsequently advert to numerous deviations in the consistency of the uterine parenchyma, and especially to a diminution of consistency, resulting from various morbid processes; but an increase or diminution in the consistency occurs even without apparent disease of the tissue.

Diminished consistency is not only presented as a relaxation of the uterus accompanied by marasmus, consequent upon the exhaustion induced by parturition, or arising from paralysis of the uterine fibre in puerperal diseases, but it also occurs in a distinct form as pulpiness (marciditas), slight friability or fragility. It very frequently affects the decrepit uterus, involves chiefly the fundus, and appears generally to result from exhausting uterine discharges. The tissue of the affected uterus is of a pale or yellowish red, or sometimes ashy color, it is torn by the slightest effort, its vessels are thickened, rigid, and sometimes ossified. This condition predisposes more particularly to apoplexy of the uterus in the advanced periods of life, and to the consequent conversion of the uterus into a sanguinolent, dark-red, and subsequently, rusty, lee-colored pulp.

This condition is of much greater importance when following parturition and puerperal morbid processes that have been complicated with phlebitis; we shall have occasion to speak more fully of this tabes uteri post pucrperium in the sequel.

The uterus presents increased consistency as a consequence of lasting hyperaemia, of hypertrophy or even of atrophy; the entire organ, or certain portions only, as e. g. the cervix being affected. There are various degrees, from coriaceous condensation and toughness to fibroid or cartilaginous induration.