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Semen analysis in human immunodeficiency virus infection.
J A Crittenden1, D J Handelsman, G J Stewart
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Fertility and Sterility
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection impacts semen quality, leading to reduced sperm motility and increased viscosity. However, sperm production remains unaffected by HIV, regardless of disease stage or treatment.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a global health concern.
- Understanding the impact of HIV on male reproductive health is crucial for patient management.
- Previous studies have yielded varied results regarding HIV's effect on semen parameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of HIV infection on semen quality.
- To determine if clinical stage, mode of acquisition, or azidothymidine (AZT) treatment influences these effects.
Main Methods:
- Conventional semen analysis was performed on ejaculates from 39 HIV-seropositive men and 51 seronegative controls.
- Clinical data, including Centers for Disease Control (CDC) classification and peripheral blood CD4 lymphocyte counts, were recorded.
- Semen analysis was also conducted on five patients before and after AZT treatment.
Main Results:
- HIV-seropositive men had significantly lower sperm motility (48.8% vs. 58.8%), higher prevalence of round cells (62% vs. 28%), and more viscous semen compared to controls.
- Sperm motility correlated positively with CD4 lymphocyte count.
- Total sperm output was preserved and unaffected by disease stage or AZT treatment.
Conclusions:
- HIV infection does not significantly reduce sperm production.
- HIV-seropositive men exhibit poorer semen quality characterized by reduced sperm motility and increased viscosity.
- Clinical stage, mode of acquisition, and AZT treatment did not significantly alter these findings.