Cystatin C and Seminal Parameter Evaluation in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease

Gilmar Pereira Silva1, Vitor Pereira Xavier Grangeiro2, Carmelita Félix Dantas de Oliveira2

  • 1Urologist of the University of Brasilia, Brasilia.

Current Urology
|January 25, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Seminal cystatin levels are lower in men undergoing chronic hemodialysis. These levels correlate with sperm parameters, aiding in the evaluation of male infertility.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Chronic hemodialysis can impact male reproductive health.
  • Seminal parameters are crucial for fertility assessment.
  • Cystatin C is a protein with various physiological roles.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the relationship between seminal cystatin C levels and seminal parameters in men undergoing chronic hemodialysis.
  • To assess the potential role of seminal cystatin C in evaluating infertility in this patient group.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study comparing 60 men on chronic hemodialysis with 15 healthy controls.
  • Semen analysis (spermogram), hormonal profile, and seminal leukocyte and cystatin C levels were assessed.
  • Participants were aged 18-60 years and free from genitourinary infections.

Main Results:

  • Seminal cystatin C levels were significantly lower in the hemodialysis group compared to controls (41.16 ± 26.59 vs. 79.00 ± 05.68 mg/l, p < 0.001).
  • Lower seminal cystatin levels were observed in men with oligospermia compared to normospermia (30.34 ± 02.52 vs. 83.50 ± 02.40 mg/l, p < 0.001).
  • Seminal cystatin levels positively correlated with sperm motility and sperm density (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

  • Seminal cystatin C levels are significantly altered in men undergoing chronic hemodialysis.
  • These levels are associated with changes in sperm count and motility.
  • Seminal cystatin C may serve as a useful biomarker in the initial assessment of subfertility and infertility in chronic hemodialysis patients.
Abstract

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