CASA in the medical laboratory: CASA in diagnostic andrology and assisted conception

2018 ◽  
Vol 30 (6) ◽  
pp. 850 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mathew J. Tomlinson ◽  
Asad Naeem
Keyword(s):  
Sperm Morphology ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Sperm Concentration ◽  
Medical Laboratory ◽  
Dna Testing ◽  
Kinematic Parameters ◽  
Clinical Value ◽  
Sperm Counts ◽  
Negative Effect ◽  
Manual Methods

CASA has been used in reproductive medicine and pathology laboratories for over 25 years, yet the ‘fertility industry’ generally remains sceptical and has avoided automation, despite clear weaknesses in manual semen analysis. Early implementers had difficulty in validating CASA-Mot instruments against recommended manual methods (haemocytometer) due to the interference of seminal debris and non-sperm cells, which also affects the accuracy of grading motility. Both the inability to provide accurate sperm counts and a lack of consensus as to the value of sperm kinematic parameters appear to have continued to have a negative effect on CASA-Mot’s reputation. One positive interpretation from earlier work is that at least one or more measures of sperm velocity adds clinical value to the semen analysis, and these are clearly more objective than any manual motility analysis. Moreover, recent CASA-Mot systems offer simple solutions to earlier problems in eliminating artefacts and have been successfully validated for sperm concentration; as a result, they should be viewed with more confidence in relation to motility grading. Sperm morphology and DNA testing both require an evidence-based consensus and a well-validated (reliable, reproducible) assay to be developed before automation of either can be of real clinical benefit.

scholarly journals The effect of N-acetyl cysteine consumption on men with abnormal sperm parameters due to positive history of COVID-19 in the last three months

2021 ◽  
Vol 93 (4) ◽  
pp. 465-467
Author(s):  
Bahare Rafiee ◽  
Seyed Mohammad Bagher Tabei
Keyword(s):  
Sperm Morphology ◽  
Sperm Quality ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Sperm Concentration ◽  
Testicular Tissue ◽  
Sperm Parameters ◽  
Negative Effect ◽  
Significant Impairment ◽  
History Of ◽  
Acetyl Cysteine

Male infertility is an important factor accounting for 40-50% of infertility cases that may be due to disturbance in one of the parameters as concentration, motility and morphology observed in one or two semen analysis with an interval of 1 and 4 weeks. COVID-19 may affect male fertility through virus division, cytotoxic effects on testicular tissue and immunopathological effect. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) improved sperm concentration and acrosome reaction while reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidation of sperm DNA. This interventional study was conducted on 200 men who were referred to private infertility clinics for female factor (their previous semen analysis was normal) and got COVID-19 infection in the last 3 months showing an impairment of the latest semen analysis due to COVID. Men were placed in two groups of control (n = 100) and intervention (NAC consumption). Subjects who got COVID-19 infection had a significant impairment of sperm quality (sperm concentration, sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology) compared to their semen analysis evaluated before the COVID-19 infection. NAC consumption significantly improved sperm total motility, sperm morphology and sperm concentration. COVID-19 infection has a negative effect on sperm parameters. NAC supplementation may have positive effect on sperm parameters.

scholarly journals Assessment of Sperm Quality - A Light Microscope Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (19) ◽  
pp. 1417-1421
Author(s):  
Jyothi A. Raj ◽  
Heera Sankar ◽  
Sagarika Mahapatra ◽  
Ashima Binny
Keyword(s):  
Light Microscope ◽  
Sperm Morphology ◽  
Clinical Laboratory ◽  
Sperm Quality ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Complete Evaluation ◽  
Normal Sperm ◽  
Middle Piece ◽  
Sperm Counts ◽  
Work Up

BACKGROUND Semen analysis is an integral part of work up for infertility in men, with sperm morphology being an important qualitative parameter. Qualitative defects can affect any part of the sperm and are classified as defects in the head, middle piece, and tail, based on morphology. The focus of the study was to assess qualitative defects in sperms by light microscopy, in semen with normal sperm counts. METHODS This study is hospital based, descriptive, retrospective study. Of the semen samples received in the clinical laboratory, fifty with normal sperm counts were included in the study and processed according to standard protocol. For evaluation of qualitative defects by sperm morphology, smears were fixed in ethanol, stained with Papanicolaou stain [PAP], and assessed under light microscope. RESULTS The 50 semen samples included in the study had sperm counts ranging from 15 to 80 million / ml. Thirty samples had less than 10 % abnormal forms, fourteen samples had 11 - 20 % abnormal forms, five samples had 21 - 30 % abnormal forms and one sample had 40 % abnormal sperms. Qualitative defects were classified as morphological abnormalities in head, neck, and tail. Of the fifty cases, most defects were found in the head, followed by those in the neck and tail. Common defects noted were double head (44 %), abnormal sized heads, and bent neck (48 %). Coiling was a common defect noted in the tail (10 %). Most sperms showed a combination of defects. CONCLUSIONS Qualitative defects in sperm morphology are often seen in samples with normal sperm counts. Assessment of microscopic characteristics of human spermatozoa is as important as count and motility in the complete evaluation and work-up of semen samples in cases of infertility. KEY WORDS Semen, Sperm, Quality, Microscopy, Morphology

scholarly journals Association between varicocele grade and semen analysis parameter

2018 ◽  
Vol 26 (4) ◽  
pp. 270-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ira Ariyati ◽  
Rahmad Mulyadi ◽  
Ponco Birowo ◽  
Budi Wiweko ◽  
Joedo Prihartono
Keyword(s):  
Sperm Morphology ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Sperm Concentration ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Maximum Condition ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Doppler Examination ◽  
Pampiniform Plexus

Background: Varicocele is a condition characterized by elongation, dilatation and tortuousity of spermatic vein in pampiniform plexus. Approximately 50% of infertility cases among men are caused by varicocele. The varicocele may affect the components of sperm. This study aimed to determine the association between varicocele grade based on ultrasound Doppler examination and sperm concentration, sperm motility, and sperm morphology based on semen analysis examination.Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study which used secondary data from 85 patients that visited Department of Urology, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, then underwent ultrasonography examination at Department of Radiology, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital and semen analysis examination at Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital.Results: Varicocele grade was significantly associated with sperm morphology, concentration and motility (all p<0.05). Significant association was found between maximum condition and semen analysis component.Conclusion: Varicocele grade may affect semen analysis component.

P–011 Automated sperm morphology assessment using artificial intelligence technology

2021 ◽  
Vol 36 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
A Agarwal ◽  
M K Panne. Selvam
Keyword(s):  
Artificial Intelligence ◽  
Predictive Value ◽  
Sperm Morphology ◽  
Semen Quality ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Sperm Concentration ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Diagnostic Use ◽  
Normal Sperm

Abstract Study question Can LensHooke X1 PRO semen analyzer be used to evaluate sperm morphology in men with infertility? Summary answer Morphology results generated by X1 PRO are highly reliable when normal sperm forms are ≥4% and therefore they can be reported in such cases . What is known already Most laboratories rely on manual evaluation of sperm morphology smears, which is a time-consuming procedure and its results are subjected to a relatively high variability. However, in recent years the computer-assisted semen analyzers are being increasingly used to evaluate sperm morphology. The X1 PRO semen quality analyzer was designed for in vitro diagnostic use to analyze sperm concentration, total, progressive and non-progressive motility as well as sperm morphology based on WHO 5th edition criteria. Evaluation of sperm morphology using X1 PRO based on AIOM (Artificial Intelligence Optical Microscopic)-based technology requires no fixation steps or staining unlike the manual method. Study design, size, duration This cross-sectional study used 31 semen samples from 8 normozoospermic healthy volunteers and 5 infertile men with a minimum abstinence period between 2 - 3 days. While the 8 healthy semen donors produced a total of 26 ejaculates, which were split into 88 aliquots, the 5 infertile patients produced 5 ejaculates that were split into 13 aliquots. Participants/materials, setting, methods A total of 101 aliquots were prepared from the native semen samples either by dilution or concentration using seminal plasma of the respective donors. Automated semen analysis was performed by the X1 PRO semen analyzer and the results of sperm morphology were compared with manual morphology results using Diff-Quik staining. Statistical analysis was carried out to calculate the positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of X1 PRO semen analyzer. Main results and the role of chance The X1 PRO sperm morphology results show a weak non-significant (P = 0.2441) correlation (r = 0.119) with the manual results. However, X1 PRO demonstrated a high PPV (97.7%) and a low NPV (9.1%) for correct assessment of sperm morphology (≥4%) when compared to manual results. Due to its high PPV, laboratories can report the morphology results generated by X1 PRO in all such cases when normal sperm forms are ≥4%. However, a manual evaluation is necessary in patients with abnormal morphology (&lt;4%). Limitations, reasons for caution One of the limitation of this study is that X1 PRO morphology values did not correlate with manual results. The low NPV seen in our study is due to the inclusion of very few samples with abnormal sperm forms (&lt;4%) in the analysis. Wider implications of the findings: The X1 PRO’s combination of speed, ease of use, accuracy and portability makes it a good choice of device for small medical offices to large IVF centers. High PPV of X1 PRO allows it to correctly identify normal sperm forms for diagnostic use. Trial registration number 18–771

Association between kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) and macroscopic indicators of semen analysis: their relation to sperm motility

2009 ◽  
Vol 390 (9) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nashmil Emami ◽  
Andreas Scorilas ◽  
Antoninus Soosaipillai ◽  
Tammy Earle ◽  
Brendan Mullen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Differential Diagnosis ◽  
Sperm Motility ◽  
Seminal Plasma ◽  
Semen Quality ◽  
Sperm Quality ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Sperm Concentration ◽  
Differentially Expressed ◽  
Viscosity Data ◽  
Clinical Value

Abstract Human kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) are a family of proteases, the majority of which are found in seminal plasma and have been implicated in semen liquefaction. Here, we examined the clinical value of seminal KLKs in the evaluation of semen quality and differential diagnosis and etiology of abnormal liquefaction and/or viscosity. KLK1–3, 5–8, 10, 11, 13, and 14 were analyzed, using highly specific ELISA assays. Samples were categorized into four clinical groups, according to their state of liquefaction and viscosity. Data were compared between the clinical groups and in association with other parameters of sperm quality, including number of motile sperms, straight line speed, sperm concentration, volume, pH, and patient age. Seminal KLKs were found to be differentially expressed in the four clinical groups. Combination of KLK2, 3, 13, and 14 and KLK1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 13, and 14 showed very strong discriminatory potential for semen liquefaction and viscosity, respectively. Liquefaction state was associated with several parameters of sperm motility. Finally, KLK14 was differentially expressed in asthenospermic cases. In conclusion, the expression level of several seminal plasma KLKs correlates with liquefaction and viscosity indicators of semen quality and may aid in their differential diagnosis and etiology.

scholarly journals Ejaculatory abstinence in semen analysis: does it make any sense?

2020 ◽  
Vol 14 ◽  
pp. 263349412090688 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shah Dupesh ◽  
Natarajan Pandiyan ◽  
Radha Pandiyan ◽  
Jeeva Kartheeswaran ◽  
Bhaskar Prakash
Keyword(s):  
Retrospective Analysis ◽  
Sperm Morphology ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Sperm Concentration ◽  
World Health ◽  
Semen Parameters ◽  
Motile Sperm ◽  
Normal Sperm ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Ejaculatory Abstinence

Background: The precise effect of ejaculatory abstinence on semen parameters is highly debatable, especially among subfertile men. Previous studies on effect of abstinence time on different semen parameters have reported controversial results. The aim of this study was to retrospectively assess the variance of semen parameters with different periods of ejaculatory abstinence among both a population of normozoospermic ( n = 1621) and oligozoospermic ( n = 416) Tamil men, presenting to a fertility clinic for an infertility evaluation ( N = 2037). Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 2037 semen analysis reports involved grouping patients based on their ejaculatory abstinence, that is, <24 h, 1 to 2 days, 3 to 7 days, 8 to 15 days, 16 to 30 days, and >30 days. All semen parameters were assessed as per the World Health Organization (WHO, 2010) recommended guidelines. The unpaired two-tailed t-test and Welch’s analysis of variance (ANOVA) combined with Games–Howell post hoc test were used for statistical analysis. A p value <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Result: A retrospective analysis of data ( N = 2037) identified no statistically significant differences in semen parameters of sperm concentration, percentage of progressively motile sperm, and normal sperm morphology in both normozoospermic and oligozoospermic individuals across different groups of abstinence. Semen volume was the only parameter that showed a statistically significant difference in both groups ( p < 0.0001). In both normozoospermic and oligozoospermic men, the group with <24 h abstinence had the highest mean percentage of progressively motile sperm and normal sperm morphology. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that ejaculatory abstinence may be highly arbitrary, and the recommendation of a strict 2- to 7-day abstinence per the WHO may be liberalized. In both normozoospermic and oligozoospermic men, semen parameters associated with an abstinence of <24 h were found to be noninferior as compared to longer ejaculatory abstinence intervals. These findings support in eliminating conservative recommendations as far as abstinence is concerned and suggest that patients may be asked to collect a semen sample on the day they present for an infertility evaluation, regardless of abstinence.

scholarly journals To analyse the semen for various parameters with special reference to lifestyle factors

2017 ◽  
Vol 6 (6) ◽  
pp. 2589
Author(s):  
Abhinav Aswal ◽  
Sangeeta Sharma ◽  
Rani Bansal ◽  
Anjali Khare
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Consumption ◽  
Male Infertility ◽  
Prospective Study ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Sperm Concentration ◽  
Seminiferous Tubules ◽  
Male Factor ◽  
Medical College ◽  
Accessory Sex Glands ◽  
Negative Effect

Background: Male factor is responsible for infertility in 23% cases. Semen analysis is the cornerstone of infertility evaluation as it provides information on the functional status of seminiferous tubules, epididymis and accessory sex glands. Reports in recent years has shown that incidence of male infertility has increased as a result of various factors such as lifestyle, environmental pollution and stress.Methods: This prospective study was conducted on patients reporting for semen analysis in Department of Pathology, Subharti Medical College. The duration of the study was from October 2014 to September 2016 with a study sample of 196 cases. Semen analysis was done by manual method according to WHO 2010 criteria.Results: According to fertility scoring, out of 196 cases, 51 (26%) were infertile cases. With respect to infertile cases 82.4% were alcoholic, 80.4% tobacco smokers, 25.5% were tobacco chewers. These results were statistically significant. Out of 45 cases of oligozoospermia 37 (82.2%) were alcoholic, 36 (80%) were tobacco smoker and 10 (22.2%) were tobacco chewers. Out of 54 cases of asthenozoosperma 38 (70.4%) were alcoholic, 37 (68.5%) were tobacco smoker and 11 (20.4%) were tobacco chewers.Conclusions: Alcohol consumption, tobacco smoking and tobacco chewing have a significant negative effect on the process of spermatogenesis, ultimately affecting sperm concentration, viability and motility. Hence clinician and fertility counselors need to be more focused to control infertility by modifying the life style factors. 

scholarly journals Comparison of semen analysis by manual and automated method

2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (12) ◽  
pp. 990-993
Author(s):  
AK Chaurasia ◽  
AK Sinha ◽  
P Upahdyay
Keyword(s):  
Comparative Study ◽  
Male Fertility ◽  
Sperm Morphology ◽  
Sperm Count ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Sperm Concentration ◽  
Health Sciences ◽  
Manual Method ◽  
Automated Method ◽  
The Mean

Background: Semen analysis is used to evaluate male fertility. The aim of this study was to compare the results of semen analysis using manual method and automated sperm analyzer.Materials and Methods: This was a comparative study of 50 cases of semen analysis done in the Department of Pathology at the B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences from March 2009 to March 2010. The automated sperm analyzer did not show the WHO parameters of patients who had functional sperm count (FSC) less than five hundred thousand (500,000). Semen analysis of each of the case included in the study was done by manual and automated method (using SQAII-P analyzer).Results: Out of 31 patients, the mean age of the patients was 28.56 years with youngest patient of 20 years and eldest of 45 year. Sensitivity and specificity was 100% in analysis of sperm concentration by both the methods. Sperm motility analysis showed 100% sensitivity and 81.81% specificity. Sperm morphology analysis showed 100% sensitivity and 34.48% specificity.Conclusion: It was observed that the automated method is much quicker and precise than the conventional, manual method for semen analysis.

scholarly journals Relationship of arctic fox (Alopex lagopus L.) sperm morphology with age of males, sperm concentration, ejaculate volume and acrosin activity

2018 ◽  
Vol 18 (3) ◽  
pp. 741-752 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karolina Stasiak ◽  
Stanisław Kondracki ◽  
Maria Iwanina
Keyword(s):  
Sperm Morphology ◽  
Semen Quality ◽  
Morphological Changes ◽  
Sperm Concentration ◽  
Arctic Fox ◽  
Young Males ◽  
Arctic Foxes ◽  
Relationship Of ◽  
Acrosin Activity ◽  
Sperm Acrosome

Abstract The aim of the study was to determine the relationship of sperm morphology with age of males, ejaculate concentration and volume, as well as with acrosin activity determined in sperm acrosome extracts. The study used manually collected ejaculates from 9 male arctic foxes, including 6 young males aged one year and 3 older males (between 3 and 5 years of age). All of the 39 ejaculates used in the study were classified as normal based on motility exceeding 70%. The ejaculates collected from the foxes were evaluated for volume, sperm concentration and frequency of morphological changes including primary and secondary defects. The spermiograms of the male arctic foxes were classified according to a six-grade subjective scale. In addition, acrosin activity was determined in the sperm acrosome extracts. The data were analysed using the criteria of male age, sperm concentration, ejaculate volume, and acrosin activity. The morphology of arctic fox spermatozoa was dependent on the age of the male. A greater number of morphologically altered spermatozoa tended to occur in the ejaculates of young foxes, which were in their first breeding season. In addition, statistical analysis revealed positive relationships between the frequency of morphological changes in sperm and their ejaculate concentration. In contrast, there were no significant correlations between the percentages of morphologically changed spermatozoa and the ejaculate volume and the content of acrosin, which is an indicator of acrosomal integrity. Semen quality is dependent on the number of sperm in ejaculate with morphological defects which prevent oocyte fertilization. Therefore, morphological assessment of semen, which covers both the number and type of morphological changes, is highly useful when selecting appropriate males for reproduction.

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