Antiphospholipid syndrome and infertility.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Immunology
• Systemic Autoimmune Diseases

Background:

• Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by antiphospholipid antibodies, leading to obstetric complications and vascular events.
• A significant portion of unexplained infertility cases (8-20%) may be linked to APS.
• Existing research explores the association between antiphospholipid antibodies and female reproductive failure, including unexplained infertility and in vitro fertilization outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the relationship between antiphospholipid syndrome and infertility.
• To examine the evidence linking antiphospholipid antibodies to both female and male reproductive challenges.
• To assess the basis for routine antiphospholipid antibody testing in infertile patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating antiphospholipid antibodies and infertility.
• Analysis of research on antiphospholipid antibodies in unexplained infertility and IVF outcomes.
• Examination of case reports and studies concerning antiphospholipid antibodies and male infertility.

Main Results:

• Antiphospholipid antibodies are implicated in female reproductive failure, affecting unexplained infertility and IVF success rates.
• Limited evidence associates antiphospholipid antibodies with male infertility, citing penile abnormalities and testicular infarction.
• Current data is insufficient to recommend routine antiphospholipid antibody screening for all infertile individuals.

Conclusions:

• Antiphospholipid syndrome is a potential, though not fully established, factor in certain infertility cases.
• Further research is needed to clarify the specific mechanisms and prevalence of APS in male infertility.
• Routine antiphospholipid antibody testing in infertility management is not currently evidence-based.