Screening for the presence of serum anti-sperm antibodies is used in the investigation of unexplained infertility in men and women and in monitoring men with specific genital disorders.
Male genital disorders include, among others, a history of testicular injury, biopsy, reversing vasectomy (vasa deferentia anastomosis), genital infection, or obstructive lesions of the genital tract. Antisperm antibodies can also be found in the blood of men suffering from testicular obstruction (a common cause of low sperm count or poor motility) and in 30 to 70% of men who have undergone vasectomy (surgical ligation vasa deferentia). Absorption of sperm from the excluded ducts results in the formation of autoantibodies in the sperm as a result of the interaction of the spermatic antigens with the immune system. High titers of anti-sperm autoantibodies are often associated with testicular degradation after vasectomy and explain why 50% of men who have successfully undergone a reversing vasectomy, remain infertile.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
