Human seminal plasma allergy in India

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Immunology
• Allergology
• Clinical Case Study

Background:

• Human seminal plasma allergy (HSPA) is a recognized condition in Western countries.
• The condition involves an allergic reaction to proteins present in seminal fluid.
• HSPA can manifest with local or systemic symptoms, impacting fertility.

Observation:

• This report details the first documented case of HSPA in India.
• An 18-year-old married woman presented with a two-year history of episodic wheezing and dyspnea.
• She also experienced local postcoital symptoms and infertility despite unprotected intercourse.

Findings:

• Intradermal skin tests using seminal plasma antigens were markedly positive in the patient.
• Antigens were prepared from both her husband's semen and a healthy volunteer's semen.
• Skin tests performed on her husband were negative, ruling out male-factor allergies.

Implications:

• This case highlights the occurrence of HSPA in India, expanding its known geographical prevalence.
• The study underscores the potential diagnostic difficulties of HSPA, particularly local forms, within specific social and cultural contexts.
• Increased awareness is needed for timely diagnosis and management of HSPA in affected women.