Abstract

This study compares the segregation of the ABO and Rh systems between malformed newborns and a control group with two purposes: (1) to evaluate the participation of genetic factors associated with these blood groups in the production of congenital malformations, and (2) to prove, indirectly, the existence of reproductive losses associated with congenital malformations. The newborns and their mothers were typed for ABO and Rh groups. Gene frequencies were similar in malformed and control newborns. In the female malformed newborns, an excess of O-B pairs and a deficit of B-B pairs in the ABO system, and an excess of Rh--Rh- pairs in the Rh system were found.