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Antisperm antibodies in men with psychogenic anejaculation
M Almagor1, M Dan-Goor, Y Hovav
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bikur Cholim Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel.
Archives of Andrology
|June 27, 1998
Summary
Psychogenic anejaculation may increase the risk of antisperm autoimmunity. This study found antisperm antibodies in 31% of men with psychogenic anejaculation undergoing assisted reproduction.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Immunology
- Andrology
- Assisted Reproductive Technology
Background:
- Antisperm autoantibodies can impair fertility.
- Psychogenic anejaculation is a condition affecting semen expulsion.
- Assisted reproduction treatments are used for infertility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and characteristics of antisperm autoantibodies in men with psychogenic anejaculation.
- To explore the potential link between psychogenic anejaculation and antisperm autoimmunity.
Main Methods:
- Blood and semen samples were collected from 16 men with psychogenic anejaculation.
- Transrectal electroejaculation was used for sample collection.
- Direct and indirect immunobead binding tests measured antisperm antibodies in serum and on spermatozoa.
Main Results:
- Antisperm antibodies were detected in 5 out of 16 men (31%).
- Antibodies were primarily directed against sperm heads.
- Surface antibodies were mainly IgA, while serum antibodies were IgG isotype.
Conclusions:
- Psychogenic anejaculation is associated with a higher incidence of antisperm autoimmunity.
- The findings suggest a potential role for immune factors in psychogenic anejaculation-related infertility.
- Further research is warranted to understand the immunopathogenesis.