Management strategies for male factor infertility

Although modern assisted reproduction techniques contribute a lot to overcoming severe male factor infertility, application of these methods in every infertile couple would represent an over-treatment. Therefore, conventional treatment modalities are still the first approach to male fertility disorders. Apart from assisted reproduction techniques, these include surgical procedures and the administration of drugs. Causal treatment regimens of proven effectiveness are only available for patients with infertility resulting from hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. Drug treatment of retrograde ejaculation is also effective. Inconsistent results have been obtained with empirical treatment including antiestrogens, androgens, aromatase-inhibitors, mast cell blockers, zinc and pentoxifylline. Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive therapy as well as treatment with antioxidants in the presence of reactive oxygen species has not yet been demonstrated to be effective by controlled studies but represent at least a rational approach which should be investigated more thoroughly. High dosage administration of follicle stimulating hormone aimed particularly at improving disturbed sperm structures, and the combination of tamoxifen with androgens, may be promising developments. A careful diagnostic work-up is necessary before any andrological treatment is commenced so that adequate treatment options can be selected for individual patients.