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Semin Reprod Med 2000; 18(4): 393-400
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-13729
Copyright © 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Alloimmune Causes of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

T. Flint Porter, James R. Scott
  • Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Recurrent pregnancy loss is a vexing problem facing many couples. Some authorities have suggested that idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss is alloimmune in nature. Suggested mechanisms include the presence of cytotoxic antibodies, absence of maternal blocking antibodies, inappropriate sharing of human leukocyte antigens, and disturbances in natural killer cell function and distribution. Proposed therapies for so-called alloimmune-related pregnancy loss include leukocyte immunization and intravenous immune globulin. Unfortunately, neither has been successful in well-designed trials and both are expensive. Although alloimmune disturbances may be responsible for some idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss, the pathophysiology is far from certain and there is currently no clinical indication for immunotherapy.

KEYWORD

Alloimmune - recurrent pregnancy loss - intravenous immune globulin

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