Intravenous immunoglobulin preceding in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer for patients with repeated failure of embryo transfer.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effectiveness of immunotherapy with high-dose IV immunoglobulin preceding IVF-ET for patients with repeated failure of ET.


METHODS
Prospective, observational.


METHODS
Assisted Reproduction Unit of the Hospital Clínic i Provincial in Barcelona, a tertiary care setting.


METHODS
Twelve consecutive tubal infertility patients experiencing repeated unexplained IVF-ET failure including at least three ETs replacing three to four fresh embryos each. Two women shared three or more human leukocyte antigens (HLA) with the husband.


METHODS
During the subsequent new IVF-ET cycle, each patient received 400 mg/kg IV immunoglobulin daily for 5 days during ovarian stimulation, that is, 5 to 7 days before ET.


METHODS
Clinical pregnancies.


RESULTS
No implantation occurred. There were no side effects.


CONCLUSIONS
High-dose IV immunoglobulin is not a useful tool for IVF-ET failure.
Balasch
J
J
Faculty of Medicine-University of Barcelona, Hospital Clinic i Provincial, Spain.
Creus
M
M
Fábregues
F
F
Font
J
J
Martorell
J
J
Vanrell
J A
JA
D000328:Adult; D010064:Embryo Implantation; D004624:Embryo Transfer; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D006801:Humans; D016756:Immunoglobulins, Intravenous; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000628:therapy; D011247:Pregnancy; D018873:Pregnancy Rate; D011446:Prospective Studies; D017211:Treatment Failure
D016756:Immunoglobulins, Intravenous