[Indication status of chromosome analysis in the diagnostic evaluation of recurrent abortions]

Parental (balanced) chromosome anomalies are one possible cause for the recurrence of miscarriages in the first three months of pregnancy. The preparation of karyotypes of the patients is thus an integral part of diagnostic clarification, yet the question of the relative importance of this examination among the range of diagnostic possibilities is the subject of controversy. This article reports on 112 couples examined cytogenetically over a period of four years as a result of recurrent miscarriages. In 6 cases (5.4%), chromosome aberrations were established that can be regarded as the cause of the recurrent miscarriages. With regard both to the examinations reported here and to the results published in recent literature, chromosome analysis of both partners is recommended after the second miscarriage as part of the first diagnostic steps taken.