Semen Abnormality Patterns and Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples in Dakar (Senegal)

Abstract

Introduction: Inter individual variation for semen on analysis is well known. Therefore, Semen profile is not the same in individuals from different geographic locations, environments, ways of life, and populations. It is important for a laboratory to have an idea of the semen profile of its population, especially for those who present with infertility. The aim of this study was to draw the pattern of semen abnormalities in male partner of infertile couple in Dakar, Senegal. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of all the semen samples of male partners of infertile couples submitted for analysis in the laboratory of Cytogenetic and Reproductive Biology of Dakar at the University Teaching hospital from January 2013 to June 2014. Results: A total of 262 male semen analyses were reported. Analysis was performed according to WHO, 2010 manual for examination of human semen. Our study reveals that 80.9% of men in infertile couples present an abnormality in sperm pattern. The main one is oligo-astheno-terato-necrozoospermia (20.2%), followed by azoospermia, (14.1%), astheno-necrospermia (10.3%) and astheno-terato-necro-zoospermia (10.3%). Leucocytospermia was found in 57.8%. Teratozoospermia (80.9%) was the most associated abnormality, followed by necrozoospermia (76.2%). Low sperm count under 5 million per ml concerned 27.7% of the patients, and 11.2% patients had low ejaculate volume. Nearly 42.1% of the male partners are potential candidates for Assisted Reproductive Technology for male infertility. Conclusion: The high rate of semen abnormality in patients of infertile couples and consequently the high rate of potential candidates to Assisted Reproductive Technology for male infertility are important reasons for taking into account rigorously the male subject if we want to improve fertility rate in our context. The pattern of the specific abnormalities found is precious clues to guide management of these patients.