Post conception failures in reproduction: infectious diseases and immunitary problems

The mechanism by which early abortions may be caused by infections disease or immunological problems are discussed by the Authors. Among the first group of causes, syphilitic infections, rubela, viral diseases and others are examined. Immunological problems which may lead to early abortions are then discussed in the more complex context of mother/embryo interactions, examined also on the basis of experimental models. All the hypotheses which may explain refusal of embryo are examined, but the Authors stress the fact that also in proven cases of immunological refusal of pregnancy, the question of the usefulness of immunological therapy remains unanswered.