Chromosomal Abnormalities in 238 Couples with Recurrent Miscarriages in Morocco

Purpose: A proportion of cases with repeated abortion are caused by chromosomal abnormality in one of the parents. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency and nature of chromosomal aberrations that contribute to the occurrence of recurrent miscarriages. Several studies have been done to determine the role of chromosomal abnormalities in couples with recurrent spontaneous abortion in various countries. None of these studies was done in Morocco. Material and Methods: Cytogenetic study was done for 238 Moroccan couples who presented with repeated abortion at the Institut Pasteur, Casablanca, Morocco. Results: We found that the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities was not significantly different from that reported worldwide. Chromosomal abnormalities were detected in 13 (6.1%) of 238 couples. twelve of chromosomal abnormalities were structural and one of them were numerical. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of constitutional cytogenetic exploration of couples with a history of repeated spontaneous abortion. Cytogenetic findings could provide valuable information for genetic counseling and allow monitoring of future pregnancies by prenatal diagnosis in couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage.