Prognosis for Sperm Fertilizability: Analysis of Different Variables in Men

Abstract

An overview of various sperm tests is presented. The standard semen analysis obtained by most clinicians evaluating infertility usually consists of sperm concentration, percent motility, quality of motility, and sperm morphology. Unfortunately, unless the motile density is extremely low, the count and motility are not good prognosticators of fertility potential. Values above the norm for normal fertile couples unfortunately cannot reliably predict normal fertility potential. It is important to find sperm tests that are easy to perform, are relatively inexpensive, and provide an accurate prognosis. Strict morphology was hoped to be such a tool with initial optimism that it was far superior to standard morphology. Unfortunately, this test also failed to be the ideal inexpensive prognostic test after further evaluation. One test that is inexpensive and highly correlates with fertilizability is the presence of antisperm antibodies since their presence frequently does not alter count, motility, or morphology. This test should be performed as part of the routine semen analysis. Other tests highly correlate with the achievement of pregnancy and are simple and inexpensive to perform, but, interestingly, do not correlate with fertilizability. These include the hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST) and the sperm stress test. Abnormalities in these tests imply a different abnormality of sperm that leads to conception failure and that is the transfer of a toxic factor from the sperm to oocyte to embryo that prevents the embryo from implanting. Certainly, the simple, inexpensive HOST should be performed routinely. Other tests of sperm function, e.g., sperm penetration assay, sperm zona pellucida binding assay, and acrosome reaction, have their definite place in the evaluation of the infertile male. However, because they are expensive and difficulty to perform they lend themselves to certain specific circumstances but not to routine testing.

Sperm Dna Integrity: Correlation With Sperm Plasma Membrane Integrity In Semen Evaluated For Male Infertility

“…Abnormal HOST also suggested that some qualitative defect in embryos may result from defective sperm membranes, resulting in morphologically normal appearance but physiologically defective embryos [36]. Several studies have indicated that low HOST scores may cause implantation disorders and are associated with higher rates of miscarriage [7,8,13,14,16,53]. The mechanisms that cause poor implantation are unclear; however, it was speculated that a toxic factor may be transferred to the oocyte by the supernumerary sperm attached to the zona pellucida [15].…”

Biomarkers for assessing reproductive development and health: Part 1--Pubertal development.

“…The presence of serum antisperm antibodies is normally considered problematic, as it is a good indicator that fertility will be or is compromised. Indeed, Check et al (2002) suggested that this test be performed as part of routine semen analysis. However, we retain a poor understanding of the profile of ASA that leads to antibody-mediated male infertility, thus warranting further studies into this area.…”

Levels of P34H, a sperm protein of epididymal origin, as a predictor of conventional in vitro fertilization outcome

“…Spermiogram values have been standardized by WHO and are useful in diagnosing cases of testicular causes of male infertility as well as posttesticular syndromes, such as obstruction or immunologic causes. The use of spermiogram values to establish a threshold of fertility has been controversial, and this is reflected by the fact that they poorly predict IVF outcome in humans (15). Sperm morphology ascertained by strict Kruger criteria indicates some predictive values of IVF success (16,17), but this has raised some controversies (15).…”