ABSTRACT

Several biochemical markers are used to identify the source of secretions within the ejaculate by the presence of different components (Table 6.1).

The World Health Organization (1999) has developed ‘strict criteria’ for sperm normality. Several classifications

Table 6.1 Some biochemical markers to identify the source of secretions within the ejaculate by the presence of different ejaculate components

Source of secretion Biochemical markers

Testes Androgen-binding protein Inhibin Testosterone Transferrin

Epididymal ducts Carnitine Glycerophosphorylcholine Inositol

Seminal vesicles Fructose Prostaglandins

Prostate Acid phosphatase Citrate Calcium, zinc Spermine Vesiculase

Bulbourethral/urethral glands IgA Mucoproteins

have been designed to describe sperm abnormalities (Figures 6.1-6.5; Tables 6.2 and 6.3). The following groups are of special physiological significance:

(1) Head abnormalities (Figures 6.6-6.9):

(a) large heads; (b) small heads; (c) elongated/tapering heads; (d) duplicated heads;

(e) amorphous heads; (f ) loose heads;

(2) Tail abnormalities;

(3) Neck/middle piece abnormalities;

(4) Cytoplasmic droplets.