Genetic immunological causes of recurrent miscarriages;
'HLA sharing as a cause of recurrent miscarriages'

Recurrent miscarriages is commonly defined as three or more consecutive
miscarriages prior to the 20th week. It is a common problem affecting 1 to 2%
of all fertile couples and is a highly heterogeneous condition. An underlying
cause may be identified in about 25-50% of cases. Therefore 50-75% of the
couples are left with the burden of continuous uncertainty and clinicians
without means to treat these women. In the last decade several therapies were
investigated, however none of these therapies have been proven effective.
In this project we aim to determine different genetic immunological causes of
recurrent miscarriage of unknown etiology. These results will help to identify
these patients and to eventually develop effective therapies.

Does HLA sharing in couples with recurrent miscarriage play a role in recurrent
miscarriage of unknown etiology?

A case control study in genetic immunological risk factors

Women will be asked to fill out an extended, personal questionnaire ( 25
minutes)
Bloodsamples will be taken from women and their partners 1 time
If a couples already has child(ren) permission will be asked to take a buccal
schwab
We do not expect that participating in this trial will be a burden or be of
any risk.