A cytogenetic study of couples with repeated spontaneous abortions

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The frequency of chromosomal aberrations in Iran is not definitely known. This study determined the frequency of chromosomal aberrations in a series of couples with two or more spontaneous abortions and compared the findings with that reported from other countries. METHODS: This was a descriptive study conducted on 100 couples with recurrent abortions. Both partners were karyotyped as part of the primary investigation. Other probable causes of abortion were also investigated. RESULTS: Chromosomal aberrations were found in 8 (8%) of the females and 5 (5%) of the males. The prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities was as follows: 4 (30.8%) balanced reciprocal translocations, 3 (23%) Robertsonian translocations, 3 (23%) pericentric inversions, 1 (7.7%) paracentric inversion, 1 (7.7%) chromosomal marker, and 1 (7.7%) polymorphism 9qh+. CONCLUSIONS: The pattern of chromosomal aberrations was similar to that reported in other studies, but the prevalence of chromosomal aberrations was higher.