Human leukocyte antigen compatibility and failure to achieve a viable pregnancy with assisted reproductive technology

Many couples fail to achieve a viable pregnancy with multiple attempts of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). Immunologic rejection of the embryo may be a factor in these couples. We evaluated shared human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antigenicity in 10 couples who failed multiple ART cycles and compared them with 10 couples who achieved a viable pregnancy with their first ART attempt. Study couples shared a statistically significant greater number of HLA antigens than control couples. Leukocyte immunotherapy is discussed. We conclude that couples who share multiple HLA antigens may have an immunologic basis for failing to achieve a viable pregnancy with multiple ART cycles.