Genetic disorders related to male factor infertility and their adverse consequences

Assisted reproductive techniques have revolutionized the treatment of male reproductive failure, allowing biological fatherhood to be achieved by many men that nature would have never permitted. As we are able to help more and more couples with our therapies, the genetic basis of the man's spermatogenic, anatomical, or spermatozoal dysfunction needs to be determined so as to inform the couple whether there will be adverse consequences to either the patient individually or to any female or male offspring that may result. The goal of all that is done in reproductive medicine should include not just a singular thought process involving the couple and their desires to get pregnant but should take a wider view that encompasses the children we create and their physical, psychological, and genetic well-being. This article will review some of the more common or recognized conditions resulting in male reproductive failure, what is known or hypothesized about their genetic basis, and the adverse consequences that may arise for the patient or any offspring.