The correlation between abnormal Krüger strict morphology and the sperm DNA fragmentation index

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Andrology
• Spermatozoa Analysis

Background:

• Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) is a key indicator of male infertility.
• Krüger strict morphology assesses sperm shape, a critical factor in fertilization.
• The relationship between normal morphology and SDF requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if elevated sperm DNA fragmentation is more prevalent in cases with normal Krüger strict morphology (≥4%).
• To explore the correlation between Krüger strict morphology and sperm DNA fragmentation index (SDF).

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 132 participants (March 2020 - November 2021).
• Semen analyses followed the 6th edition of the Manual for Examination and Processing of Human Semen (2021).
• Sperm chromatin dispersion test utilized to assess DNA fragmentation.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in SDF was observed between normal (≥4%) and abnormal (<4%) Krüger strict morphology groups.
• Sperm concentration was significantly lower in the abnormal morphology group (p=0.007).
• No significant correlation found between Krüger strict morphology and SDF (p<0.05).

Conclusions:

• Abnormal Krüger strict morphology does not predispose individuals to increased sperm DNA fragmentation.
• Sperm DNA fragmentation is not significantly associated with Krüger strict morphology.
• Further research may explore other factors influencing SDF.