[Value of the study of biological autoimmunity in gyneco-obstetrical pathology]

The relationship between autoimmunity and obstetrical pathology is reviewed in the light of data from the literature and of the authors' own experience. The link, already demonstrated, between recurrent spontaneous abortion and the risk factor represented by antibodies directed against phospholipids (circulating anticoagulant antibodies of the lupus type, anticordiolipin antibody) is described, and the pathogenetic theories concerning these antibodies are presented, together with the treatments used for routine prevention of the foetal and maternal risk (corticosteroids, anti-platelet drugs, heparin). The results of screening for antinuclear antibodies in 354 non-pregnant women are reported. Antinuclear antibodies were present in titers of 1/100 in 4.2 percent and 1/50 in 8.7 percent of these women. In the same category of women the frequency of antithyroid antibodies was as high as 12 percent. These data should encourage routine examination for auto-antibodies before and during pregnancy in order to evaluate and prevent the obstetrical risk to which these women are exposed.