Verification of reference values for semen analysis according to WHO 2010 in Buenos Aires

Verification of reference values for semen analysis according to WHO 2010 in Buenos Aires

Susana Mercedes Curi, Patricia Haydee Chenlo, Mercedes Norma Pugliese, Julia Irene Ariagno, Herberto Ernesto Repetto, José Vazquez, Melba Sardi Segovia, Gabriela Ruth Mendeluk

Laboratorio de Fertilidad Masculina, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, INFIBIOC, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Córdoba 2351 (1120), Buenos Aires, Argentina.

WHO 2010 provided reference values for semen analysis; however clinical laboratories should verify them in healthy fertile males. In order to be able to transfer this reference interval to our unit, it was proposed to examine the available data in the Buenos Aires population. The range of data obtained in this population was also provided for the following: total number of progressively motile and morphologically normal spermatozoa in the ejaculate, interkinematic parameter values and functional tests, in an attempt to establish standardization in these parameters. The process of reference value verification was carried out according to C28-A2 CLSI (Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute) guidelines; to that aim, twenty men born in Argentina who reside in Buenos Aires province or city were recruited to participate. They were of proven fertility in the last 12 months. Individuals with pathologies by andrological consultation were excluded. Samples were processed according to 2010 WHO. In Buenos Aires City, WHO reference values were confirmed whereas semen volume was not confirmed. The range of values for total progressive and morphologically normal spermatozoa as well as kinetic parameter values, enrichment by swim up and functional test results were established for the male fertile population studied in an attempt to contribute to the construction of future reference values.

Acta Bioquím Clín Latinoam 2014; 48 (4): 429-35