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Bacteroides ureolyticus in men consulting for infertility
T Balmelli1, J Stamm, M Dolina-Giudici
1Andrology Laboratory, La Carità Hospital, Locarno, Switzerland.
Andrologia
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Bacteroides ureolyticus infection in semen correlates with altered seminal microflora, increased short-tailed sperm, and lower fructose levels. This suggests potential impacts on sperm function and seminal vesicle health, but not nongonococcal urethritis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Andrology
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Bacteroides ureolyticus is an anaerobic bacterium.
- Seminal tract infections can impact male fertility.
- The role of B. ureolyticus in semen quality is not well-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of B. ureolyticus in semen.
- To examine the relationship between B. ureolyticus presence and seminal microflora.
- To assess the impact of B. ureolyticus on semen parameters.
Main Methods:
- Screening of 3196 semen analyses.
- Microbiological analysis of semen samples.
- Evaluation of conventional semen parameters.
Main Results:
- B. ureolyticus was detected in 9.8% of semen samples.
- Presence of B. ureolyticus correlated with increased Enterococcus species.
- Increased short-tailed spermatozoa and epithelial cells were observed.
- Decreased total fructose concentration was noted.
Conclusions:
- B. ureolyticus may affect sperm morphology and function.
- Decreased fructose suggests colonization of seminal vesicles.
- B. ureolyticus presence is not associated with nongonococcal urethritis.