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[Male fertility in the elderly]
C Manieri1, R Fornengo, G M Molinatti
1Aiuto Divisione Universitaria di Endocrinologia, Università degli Studi di Torino.
Summary
Male fertility declines with age, characterized by reduced seminal parameters and varied testicular changes. Sperm count, motility, and ejaculate volume decrease, while coiled tails become common. Testicular histology reveals hypospermatogenesis and cellular regression linked to vascular and hormonal issues.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Gerontology
- Andrology
Context:
- Male fertility in advanced age is under-researched.
- Aging impacts reproductive health and function.
- Understanding age-related changes in male reproductive parameters is crucial.
Purpose:
- To investigate seminal parameters (SP) and testicular histological parameters (THP) in elderly men.
- To document the typical changes in sperm characteristics and testicular tissue with aging.
- To explore the underlying causes of these age-related reproductive alterations.
Summary:
- Elderly men exhibit diminished ejaculate volume, sperm count, and motility.
- Abnormal sperm morphology, such as coiled tails, is frequently observed.
- Testicular histology shows a spectrum of changes, including reduced volume, hypospermatogenesis, and cellular regression.
- These changes are associated with vascular insufficiency and hormonal shifts common in older age.
Impact:
- Provides insights into the biological mechanisms of male reproductive aging.
- Highlights the need for further research into fertility preservation for older men.
- Contributes to a better understanding of age-related male infertility and its management.