[Detection of organ-specific and organ non-specific autoantibodies in the serum of sterile couples].

Sera from 150 infertile and 50 fertile couples were examined for organ-specific and non-organ-specific antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence tests on unfixed cryostat sections. Adrenocortical antibodies to zona fasciculata cells were found in 4 females and 2 males of infertile couples. Parietal cell antibodies were demonstrated in 4 females and 2 males of infertile couples. Parietal cell antibodies were demonstrated in 4 female and 3 male sera. Antibodies to mitochondria could be found in 14 fertile and 72 infertile couples. Antinuclear antibodies occurred in 2 fertile and infertile couples. Smooth muscle antibodies were found more often in infertile than fertile couples. Glomerular, skeletal muscle and reticulin antibodies were detected only in infertile couples. The detection of autoantibodies can help to elucidate immune reactions causing infertility.