Meta-analysis of the Association Between Chromosomal Polymorphisms and Outcomes of Embryo Transfer Following in Vitro Fertilization And/or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection

Background: The outcomes of in vitro fertilization and/or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) are contradictory among individuals with chromosomal polymorphisms.

Objectives: To assess whether chromosomal polymorphisms affect the outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies.

Search Strategy: Four online databases were searched from inception to September 18, 2017, using terms including "chromosomal polymorphisms" and "In vitro fertilization."

Selection Criteria: The meta-analysis included studies published in any language on IVF/ICSI outcomes in relation to male and/or female chromosomal polymorphisms (n=8).

Data Collection And Analysis: Data were extracted using a predesigned form. The IVF/ICSI outcomes were then pooled and their heterogeneity assessed.

Main Results: Male chromosomal polymorphisms showed lowered values for fertilization rate (odds ratio [OR] 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09-1.54; P=0.004); cleavage rate (OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.88-3.72; P<0.001); good quality embryos rate (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.15-1.39; P<0.001); and live birth rate (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.10-1.83; P=0.007). By contrast, early spontaneous abortion rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and ongoing pregnancy rate were not affected in this group. No relationship was found between IVF/ICSI outcomes and female chromosomal polymorphisms.

Conclusions: Male, but not female, chromosomal polymorphisms were associated with lowered values for some outcomes of IVF/ICSI.