Computerized semen analysis with sperm tail detection

We evaluated a recently developed computerized semen analyser that detects spermatozoa not only by the criteria of size, contrast and movement but also by the morphological characteristics of the sperm tail. Comparison of the sperm concentration in 33 semen samples measured by conventional and by computerized semen analysis, as well as by flow cytometry, showed acceptable agreement between all three methods, although the mean differences and standard deviations were less for conventional than for computerized analysis when compared to flow cytometry as a reference method. Motility estimates were lower by the computer system for values between 1 and 40%. Higher motilities showed no systematic error. In conclusion, the improved algorithms for sperm detection yield more reliable data for sperm concentration and motility than previous systems of computerized semen analysis.