The effect of sera antisperm antibodies in the female partner on in vivo and in vitro pregnancy and spontaneous abortion rates.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the incidence of antisperm antibodies (ASA) in female sera from infertile couples or those suffering from recurrent abortions. Also to determine if the pregnancy and/or abortion rates are any higher in those positive versus those negative for ASA.


METHODS
All registered patients had sera drawn and ASA measured by indirect immunobead test on initial study. Pregnancy and abortion rates were determined for patients undergoing in vivo or in vitro therapy.


RESULTS
There was a low incidence of ASA in patients having in vivo or in vitro treatment. There was no decrease in pregnancy rates (PRs) or increase in spontaneous abortions (SAB) in those positive for ASA.


CONCLUSIONS
Antisperm antibodies in female sera do not seem to be etiologic in causing infertility or SAB. Future studies might consider changing the antigen source from donor sperm to husband's sperm.
Check
J H
JH
University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at Camden, USA.
Katsoff
D
D
Bollendorf
A
A
Callan
C
C
D000026:Abortion, Habitual / Q000276:immunology*; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D006801:Humans; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000276:immunology*; D007518:Isoantibodies / Q000097:blood* / Q000276:immunology; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000276:immunology*
D007518:Isoantibodies