Evaluation of Seminal Fluid Parameters, Reproductive Hormones and Testicular Biopsy for non-obstructive Azoospermic Patients with Sertoli cell only Syndrome

Abstract

The aims of this study were (i) to determine the seminal fluid parameters, levels of serum reproductive hormones, testicular size and diameter of seminiferous tubules depending on multiple testicular biopsies from non-obstructive azoospermic (NOA) patients, and (ii) to assess the effect of smoking on concentrations of serum reproductive hormones. Thirty four NOA patients were involved in the present study. The selection of patients was based on an average of 2 pelleting seminal analysis, reproductive hormones profile and diagnostic testicular biopsy. A detailed questionnaire was used to obtain a thorough history from the patients. The results of this study showed that the mean age of NOA patients with Sertoli cell only syndrome (SCOS) was 33.875 years, and 47.05 % of NOA patients have had 2-4 years duration of infertility. Macroscopic examination of seminal fluid appeared to have normal values as reported by WHO. Non-significant (P>0.05) difference was observed for testicular size and diameter of seminiferous tubules between right and left testis. High and abnormal concentrations of serum FSH were registered for NOA patients with SCOS. However, non-significant (P>0.05) differences were reported for concentrations of serum reproductive hormones between smokers and non smokers. In conclusion, testicular biopsy is the useful and predictable diagnostic tool for NOA patients with SCOS. Further studies are needed to explain the etiology, management and prognosis of NOA patients with SCOS.

Keywords

• Azoospermia, sertoli cell, hormones, testicular biopsy