Trace elements in human seminal plasma and spermatozoa

Methodologies for the analysis of cadmium, copper, iron, lead, selenium and zinc in human seminal plasma and spermatozoa have been developed. Analyses were made directly in a dilution of seminal plasma or nitric acid digest of lyophilized cells using Zeeman-effect atomic absorption spectroscopy. Within-run coefficients of variation (CV's) for pooled specimens ranged from 0.5% to 9%. Between-run CV's ranged from 4% to 13%. Analysis of a seminal plasma specimen at 1/2, 1, 1 1/2, 3 1/2 and 5 hours post emission indicated that no change in seminal plasma trace element concentrations occurred on standing in contact with spermatozoa. Trace element concentrations were determined in specimens from patients undergoing infertility studies.