HLA antigen-sharing in couples with repeated spontaneous abortions and the birthweight of babies in successful pregnancies.

Previously, several groups reported an increase in HLA antigen-sharing in couples suffering from unexplained repeated spontaneous abortions. It was felt necessary to find out if HLA sharing could have any effect on children born after a successful pregnancy. The birthweight figures of children of 76 couples with repeated spontaneous abortions were analyzed. The results show a significantly lower birthweight in babies born from those couples, presenting a high incidence of HLA antigen-sharing, particularly concerning class II antigens.