Chlamydia trachomatis Infection: its relation to semen parameters and sperm DNA integrity

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Andrology

Background:

• Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is a common sexually transmitted infection.
• CT infection can impact male reproductive health.
• Semen quality and sperm DNA integrity are crucial for male fertility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of CT infection on semen quality.
• To assess the impact of CT infection on sperm DNA integrity.
• To evaluate the relationship between CT infection, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and leukocytospermia.

Main Methods:

• Study included 60 infertile male patients with CT infection and 25 controls.
• Diagnosis of CT infection confirmed by ELISA for CT IgA and detection of CT plasmid DNA.
• Evaluated semen parameters, ROS levels, sperm DNA fragmentation, and pus cell count.

Main Results:

• CT patients showed significantly decreased sperm concentration, mobility, and viability compared to controls.
• Elevated ROS levels and increased sperm DNA fragmentation were observed in CT patients (P<0.05).
• Leukocytospermia was associated with higher ROS and DNA fragmentation in CT patients (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

• CT infection negatively impacts male semen quality and sperm DNA integrity.
• Increased ROS and DNA fragmentation are key consequences of CT infection, particularly in cases of leukocytospermia.
• CT infection poses a significant risk factor for male infertility.