Autoimmune factors in reproductive failure

The present review highlights recent studies that investigated the possible influences of autoimmune factors in reproductive success or failure. These factors include antiphospholipid antibodies, antithyroid antibodies, antinuclear antibodies, antisperm antibodies, and antiovarian antibodies. The majority of recent work has focused on these potential autoimmune factors; however, controversy still exists over indicated testing and treatment options. An association of antiphospholipid antibodies and recurrent pregnancy loss has been established, and treatment with subcutaneous heparin appears most efficacious. Other autoimmune factors are under investigation as markers of in-vitro fertilization failure. Limited data from treatment trials are presented. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 13:287-291. (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.