Semen analysis

based on the new edition of the W.H.O. manual

Semen analysis in our laboratory

Semen analysis and all laboratory sperm analyzes, both conventional and specialized, are performed in accordance to internationally accepted principles of the World Health Organization (W.H.O) and other prominent international laboratory research centers (e.g. Strict morphology assessment criteria, according to Tygerberg). In our laboratory, the entire range of examinations is carried out mainly based on the guidelines of the new edition of the W.H.O. manual (6th edition). 

In accordance to the guidelines of the internationally recognized organizations (W.H.O., ESHRE-SIGA), followed by the Laboratory, the correct procedure of the semen analysis is carried out by microscopic observation by experienced, well-trained scientists, without the intervention of automatic analyzers . The use of computer assisted semen analysis does not achieve accurate evaluation of sperm parameters. Their technological systems cannot perceive the nature of the sperm sample as a speciallized educated technician can, under microscopic observation.

Our laboratory performs the following semen analyzes:

Laboratory Analyzes


Includes :

  • Natural characteristics (appearance, colour, liquefaction, viscosity, pH)
  • Quantitative characteristics (semem volume, concentration and total number of spermatozoa)
  • Sperm motility in 4 categories (rapid progressive, slow progressive, non-progressive, immotility)
  • Sperm vitality
  • Microscopic findings (round cells, epithelial cells, red cells, bacteria)
  • Round cell identification test (ENDTZ TEST)

Ejaculation includes, in addition to spermatozoa, other cells, some of which may be of clinical importance. In particular, it includes epithelial cells, as well as leukocytes and immature gametic cells, which are called "round cells". These cells can be identified.

• Immunological features (agglutinations-MAR test IgG)

Sperm morphology assessment – Teratozoospermia index

  • The assessment includes microscopic observation of atleast 400 spermatozoa inpermanent preparations, stained withPapanicolaou stain. The presence of any individual morphological deviation of one or more sections of the spermatozoon (head, midpiece, tail or cytoplasmic residues), which may indicate specific pathological disorders, is evaluated separately.
  • The Teratozoospermia Index (TZI) refers to the average number of morphological abnormalities per spermatozoa.

Morphological evaluation of spermatozoa and the teratozoospermia index are an important indicator of the fertilizing ability of sperm in vitro as well as of normal fertility in vivo.

Includes :

  • The conventional semen analysis
  • Natural characteristics (appearance, colour, liquefaction, viscosity, pH)
  • Quantitative characteristics (semem volume, concentration and total number of spermatozoa)
  • Sperm motility in 4 categories (rapid progressive, slow progressive, non-progressive, immotility)
  • Sperm vitality
  • Microscopic findings (round cells, epithelial cells, red cells, bacteria)
  • Round cell identification test (ENDTZ TEST)
  • Ejaculation includes, in addition to spermatozoa, other cells, some of which may be of clinical importance. In particular, it includes epithelial cells, as well as leukocytes and immature gametic cells, which are called "round cells". These cells can be identified.
  • Ανοσολογία σπέρματος (συγκολλήσεις- MAR – test IgG)
  • Sperm morphology assessment – Teratozoospermia index

The assessment includes microscopic observation of atleast 400 spermatozoa inpermanent preparations, stained withPapanicolaou stain. The presence of any individual morphological deviation of one or more sections of the spermatozoon (head, midpiece, tail or cytoplasmic residues), which may indicate specific pathological disorders, is evaluated separately.

The Teratozoospermia Index (TZI) refers to the average number of morphological abnormalities per spermatozoa.

Morphological evaluation of spermatozoa and the teratozoospermia index are an important indicator of the fertilizing ability of sperm in vitro as well as of normal fertility in vivo.

 

  • Test Isolation of the Best Sperm (Sperm Purification/Activation Test)

Sperm activation aims to isolate spermatozoa from the seminal fluid which includes extra leukocytes, epithelial cells, immotile/morphologically abnormal/immature spermatozoa and micro-organisms, with the ultimate aim of obtaining a spermatozoa population that is at its highest possible percentage alive , with propulsive motion and normal morphology.

 Sperm activation can also be used as a diagnostic tool by the clinician to assess the performance of the sample after its activation and to be able to decide on the suitability of the sample for normal conception, for insemination or to decide whether it is suitable only for use in IVF.

  • Study of their longevity in culture material for one or more 24 hours.

Longevity describes how long sperm motility is maintained over time. In vitro analysis of sperm longevity can provide information regarding the potential fertilizing ability of sperm and help coordinate intercourse with ovulation.

Includes

  • Aerobic semen culture
  • Anaerobic semen culture
  • Microbial Identification and Antibiogram
  • Biochemical analysis for Mycoplasma/Ureaplasma
  • Immunoenzymatic method of detection chlamydia
  • Molecular control of reproductive system infections (PCR)

Includes:

  • To spermatozoa
    • Acrosin
  • To seminal plasma
    • Prostate: acid phosphatase, citric acid, zinc
    • Epididymis: a-glycosidase
    • Seminal vesicles: fructose