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- Doris J Baker, PhD HCLD(ABB) MT(ASCP) CLS(NCA)⇑
- Address for correspondence: Doris J Baker PhD HCLD(ABB) MT(ASCP) CLS(NCA) Professor, Center of Excellence in Reproductive Sciences, and Director, Division of Clinical & Reproductive Sciences, University of Kentucky, 126E CTW Building, 900 South Limestone, Lexington KY 40536-0200. (859) 323-1100 ext. 80854, (859) 323-8957 (fax). dbake0{at}uky.edu.
Upon completion of this article, the reader will be able to:
demonstrate a basic understanding of semen production.
describe the composition of seminal plasma, including key components included in the first and last portions of the ejaculate.
guide a patient through the proper steps for preparing for a semen analysis and for collecting and transporting the specimen to the laboratory.
perform a comprehensive semen analysis acceptable for fertility diagnosis that includes: (1) macroscopic evaluation; (2) assessment of the minimum number of spermatozoa to reduce statistical counting error for microscopic parameters; (3) correct calculations; (4) morphology assessment using Strict Criteria; and (5) appropriate quality control.
recognize abnormal semen findings and be able to troubleshoot.
use correct terminology associated with the production of semen and performance of a semen analysis.
Extract
Seminal plasma (semen) is composed of spermatozoa and glandular fluids and is produced by the primary organ of the male reproductive system, the testes and the accessory sex glands. This primary organ is a dual gland that produces exocrine products (spermatozoa and testicular fluid) and endocrine products (testosterone and inhibin). Testicular function is controlled by the pituitary hormones, leutinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), under the influence of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus. FSH acts on Sertoli cells, located in the seminiferous tubules, to produce androgen-binding protein (ABP) and inhibin. Both ABP and testosterone produced by the testicular Leydig cells are required for spermatogenesis, the process in which spermatozoa are formed in the seminiferous tubules. Spermatogenic stem cells (2n) undergo transformation and a series of meiotic cell divisions to produce haploid (n) spermatids. The final step in the process, termed spermiogenesis, is the conversion of the haploid spermatid to a polarized, flagellated, motile spermatozoon, typically referred to as a sperm.1 During spermatogenesis, which requires approximately ten weeks, the germinal cells are supported and nourished by Sertoli cells (Figure 1).2 The Sertoli cells have tight junctions that form a blood testis barrier providing the appropriate fluid environment for spermatogenesis. Sperm are released into the epididymis where, over an approximate two week period, they mature and gain the ability to become motile.
Upon sexual stimulation, the bulbourethral glands secrete a small amount of fluid that lubricates the penis for sexual intercourse and neutralizes the urethral contents that are…
ABBREVIATIONS: 2n = diploid number of chromosomes; ABP = androgen-binding protein; ART = assisted reproductive technology; CAP = College of American Pathologists; FDA = Food and Drug Administration; FSH = follicle stimulating hormone; GnRH = gonadotropin releasing hormone; ICSI = intracytoplasmic sperm injection; LH = leutinizing hormone; n = haploid number of chromosomes; QC = quality control; TZI = teratozoospermia index; VTS = viscosity treatment system; WHO = World Health Organization; Y = yellowish cast of eosin dye; ZP = zona pellucida.
- INDEX TERMS
- infertility
- male factor infertility
- semen analysis
- seminal plasma
- Strict Criteria sperm morphology
Upon completion of this article, the reader will be able to:
demonstrate a basic understanding of semen production.
describe the composition of seminal plasma, including key components included in the first and last portions of the ejaculate.
guide a patient through the proper steps for preparing for a semen analysis and for collecting and transporting the specimen to the laboratory.
perform a comprehensive semen analysis acceptable for fertility diagnosis that includes: (1) macroscopic evaluation; (2) assessment of the minimum number of spermatozoa to reduce statistical counting error for microscopic parameters; (3) correct calculations; (4) morphology assessment using Strict Criteria; and (5) appropriate quality control.
recognize abnormal semen findings and be able to troubleshoot.
use correct terminology associated with the production of semen and performance of a semen analysis.
- © Copyright 2007 American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science Inc. All rights reserved.
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