Webinar on Basic Semen Analysis: Current Criteria
Introduction
- Title: Basic Semen Analysis: Current WHO Criteria
- Presented by: Biólogos Gerardo Cerezo Parra and Hugo Manuel Rodríguez Hernández
Corporate Presentation
- DECEBO founded on October 12, 1982, by Rafael González and Silvia Cabrera.
- Leading supplier of clinical diagnostic equipment in Mexico and Central America for over 35 years.
- Represents international brands and delivers high standards in equipment and services.
- Focus on laboratory equipment for human and veterinary diagnostics.
- Emphasis on timely and optimal solutions, strong post-sale service, and widespread distribution from facilities in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Mérida, Monterrey, and Morelia.
Speaker Introductions
- Gerardo Cerezo Parra: Biologist with significant experience in andrology, Director of Semen Bank LASER, editor of the basic semen analysis manual for ISA.
- Hugo Manuel Rodríguez Hernández: Biologist specialized in assisted reproduction at SEA Clinic, co-editor of the basic semen analysis manual.
Webinar Outline
- Semen Analysis Overview
- Semen Collection and Analysis Phases
- Importance of Semen Analysis
- Factors Impacting Male Fertility
- WHO Manual Evolution
- Laboratory Techniques
- Quality Control and Iso Certification
Semen Analysis Overview
- Basic Semen Analysis: Known as spermogram or seminogram, assesses testicles and sexual glands; crucial for diagnosing male reproductive pathologies.
- Phases: Collection, Microscopic Analysis, Reporting.
Importance of Semen Analysis
- Sterility vs Infertility:
- Sterility: Inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected sex.
- Infertility: Inability to carry pregnancy to term.
- Shared Responsibility: 40% female, 40% male, 10% both, 10% unknown.
Factors Impacting Male Fertility
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Immunological Factors: Anti-sperm antibodies
- Congenital Abnormalities: Testicular size, varicocele
- Acquired Testicular Damage
- Endocrine Factors: Hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis
- Genetic Conditions: Down syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome
- Environmental and Lifestyle Factors: Toxins (DDT, lead), alcohol, drugs, smoking
- Infections: STDs, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma.
WHO Manual Evolution
- Editions: 1980, 1987, 1992, 1999, 2010, and 2021
- 2021 Manual: Available free online; emphasizes accuracy and standardized evaluation.
- Reference Values: Based on studies from 13 countries; updated percentiles in 2021.
Laboratory Techniques
- Pre-Examination Phase: Sample collection guidelines; abstinence period (2-7 days), complete ejaculation collection, proper transportation (37°C).
- Examination Phase: Inspection for coagulation, volume measurement, liquefaction, odor, appearance, viscosity, and pH.
Microscopic Analysis
- Motility: Four grades (progressive rapid, progressive slow, non-progressive, immotile).
- Counting Methods: Counting 200 sperm, using grids for motility and concentration.
- Viability: Staining techniques like Eosin-Nigrosin and Nigrosin-Sole, counts of 200 sperm minimum.
- Morphology: Evaluated using WHO criteria; proper staining, counting procedures using mechanical counters.
- Round Cells: Assessment of immature cells, leukocytes, epithelial cells.
Quality Control
- Internal and External Quality Control: Ensures standardization and minimizes errors.
- ISO Certification: Essential for standardization; guidelines established in ISO standard for semen analysis.
Conclusion
- Importance of Standardization: Helps ensure consistent results and better diagnostic reliability.
- Future Work: New editions of manuals and courses are being developed to keep laboratory professionals updated.
Q&A Session Highlights
- Discussed differentiation in sperm motility evaluations, significance of various sperm aggregation and agglutination findings, importance of leukocyte counts, and impacts of findings on infertility diagnoses.
Note: A discount was offered on a virtual andrology course for webinar participants.