Chromosomal Translocations and Couple Infertility in Cotonou

Background: Fertility disorders have been a significant issue affecting populations for decades. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this issue affects approximately 17.5% of the adult population roughly one in six people worldwide. Method: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted over a seven-year period at the Cotonou cytogenetics laboratory. The study aimed to highlight the impact of chromosomal translocations on couple fertility. Participants included patients found to have a chromosomal translocation via karyotyping during an infertility workup. Patients whose karyotypes revealed abnormalities other than chromosomal translocations were excluded from the study. Conventional cytogenetic techniques were employed; specifically, G-banded metaphase karyotyping was performed using lymphocyte cultures incubated at 37°C for 72 hours. Results: A total of 36 cases of chromosomal translocations were identified. The genotypes involved 31 cases of Robertsonian translocations (88.9%) and 5 cases of reciprocal translocations (11.1%). Balanced Robertsonian translocations were found in 22 female patients during investigations into reproductive disorders. One case of a balanced homologous Robertsonian translocation was recorded in a patient with a history of recurrent miscarriages. Discussion: Chromosomal translocations whether balanced or unbalanced significantly impact couple fertility due to associated gamete and embryonic development abnormalities. Given this, would it not be beneficial to include karyotyping in prenuptial health screenings?