Editorial

Antisperm Antibodies and Varicocele

Authors: Muammer Kendirci, MD, Wayne J. G. Hellstrom, MD, FACS

Abstract

A male factor alone is responsible for greater than 20% of infertile couples and contributes to another 30 to 40% of cases.1 The aim of the male infertility evaluation is to identify correctable causes, note irreversible conditions that are amenable to assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) using the sperm of the male partner, and to act upon life-threatening conditions that may underlie infertility.2 The minimum evaluation of the infertile male includes a complete medical and reproductive history, physical examination, and at least two consecutive semen analyses. Specialized tests, including screening for antisperm antibodies (ASAB), are reserved only for cases in which identification of the cause of male infertility would direct a different form of treatment.2

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