Traditional and molecular chromosomal abnormality analysis of products of conception in spontaneous and recurrent miscarriage

Abstract

Chromosome abnormalities account for half of the recorded miscarriages. Data from cytogenetic analysis of the products of conception (POC) in miscarriages are reviewed in the paper. Genetic analysis of POC allows patients to be given prognostic information. Molecular genetic techniques can overcome the pitfalls of conventional karyotyping, such as culture failure and trace submicroscopic abnormalities. We compare the pros and cons when these technologies are applied to the analysis of POC after miscarriage. Guidance is also provided for future clinical applications. The objective of the review is to help clinicians understand the limitations and to optimise the usefulness of genetic analysis of POC. Tweetable abstract: Genetics and POC of miscarriage.