Detection of subpopulations of leucocytes in different subgroups of semen sample qualities

The role of leucocytospermia in male subfertility is a much debated topic despite being a frequent finding. This study aimed to identify the role of leucocytes, leucocyte subpopulations and natural killer cells in male subfertility. Seventy-sex subfertile men attending a regional andrology unit were recruited into this prospective study and subdivided into groups based on their semen analysis. The different leucocyte subpopulations were identified using immunocytochemical staining. Significant levels of CD3 helper T lymphocytes (P < 0.001) were present in the oligospermic, asthenospermic, oligoasthenospermic and obstructive azoospermic group compared to the normospermic group. Significant levels of B cells (P < 0.05) were present in the asthenospermic, oligoasthenospermic and obstructive azoospermic group. The natural killer cells (CD56) were significantly raised in the oligoasthenospermic and obstructive azoospermic group (P < 0.05). Our study suggests that leucocytospermia impairs sperm function through enhanced T helper cell modulation, increased B cell population which leads to increased levels of antisperm antibody and natural killer cells mediated sperm damage. The site of seminal leucocyte production is not necessarily confined to the vas or the epididymis.