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Ioannou D, Tempest HG. The genetic basis of male and female infertility. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2025; 71:143-169. [PMID: 40294233 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2025.2493621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2025] [Accepted: 04/10/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025]
Abstract
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the genetic factors underlying male and female infertility. Infertility affects an estimated one in six couples worldwide, with both male and female factors contributing equally to its prevalence. Approximately, 50% of infertility cases are attributed to genetic causes. We explore three main categories of genetic causes: chromosomal abnormalities, monogenic disorders, and syndromic conditions. Chromosomal causes, including numerical and structural aberrations, are discussed with a focus on their impact on gametogenesis and reproductive outcomes. We review key monogenic causes of infertility, highlighting recent discoveries in genes critical for gonadal development, gametogenesis, and hormonal regulation. Syndromic conditions affecting fertility are examined, highlighting their impact on reproductive function. Throughout the review, we address the challenges in identifying genetic mechanisms of infertility, particularly focusing on the intricate processes involved in oogenesis and spermatogenesis. We also discuss how advancements in genetic testing, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and genome-wide association studies (GWAS), have significantly enhanced our understanding of idiopathic infertility and promise further insights in the future. We also discuss the clinical implications of genetic diagnoses, including the role of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and genetic counseling in reproductive medicine. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the genetic basis of infertility, providing a comprehensive overview of chromosomal, monogenic, and syndromic causes. It aims to offer readers a solid foundation for understanding the complex genetic factors underlying reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Ioannou
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Helen G Tempest
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, Las Vegas, NV, USA
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Zohdy W, Soliman Abdel Satar M, Moawad HH, Amer M, GamalEl Din SF, Ragab A. Genetic anomalies in infertile Egyptian men and their impact on sperm retrieval rates and intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcome: A retrospective cohort study. Andrology 2025. [PMID: 40150902 DOI: 10.1111/andr.70031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 12/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2025] [Indexed: 03/29/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The current retrospective study aimed to investigate the frequency and types of chromosomal abnormalities among a group of infertile men, as well as their impact on semen parameters, sperm retrieval rates (SRR), and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two thousand five hundred sixty-one Egyptian men were retrospectively evaluated between 2015 and 2020. Patients underwent infertility assessment, including semen analysis, hormonal evaluation, karyotyping, and, when applicable, Y chromosome microdeletion analysis. ICSI was conductedon a total of 1541 individuals. RESULTS Our cohort included 1188 men with azoospermia (46.4%), and 457 having sperm concentrations less than 2 million/mL (17.8%). A normal male karyotype (46, XY) was observed in 2227 men (87%). We detected Klinefelter syndrome (KF) in 224 men (8.7%). Other chromosomal abnormalities, excluding KF, were identified in 110 men (4.3%), classified as compatible (N = 89) or incompatible (N = 21) with ICSI. The SRR for men with normal karyotypes was 48.6% (336/692), compared to 26.0% (19/73) for men with KF (P = 0.0003). Men with anomalies other than KF had a higher SRR of 55.6% (15/27) than those with KF (P = 0.0086). Clinical pregnancy rates were 44.1% for normal karyotypes, 33.3% for KF, and 32.3% for compatible chromosomal abnormalities (p > 0.05).The blastulation rate for men with compatible chromosomal abnormalities was 11.9%, while it was 27% for KF (p = 0.0001). Fertilization (FR) and implantation rates (IR) for KF were comparable to those with compatible abnormalities (FR: 65 .6% vs. 70.7%; IR: 18 .8% vs. 19.3%, P = 0.477, P = 0.530). The total testosterone (TT) level did not discriminate or predict testicular sperm extraction (TESE) outcome in men with KF and in men with other anomalies. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION The incidence of chromosomal abnormalities as a cause of severe male infertility in this study is within the similar range reported internationally and in the Mediterranean region. The impairment of spermatogenesis is reflected by the lower SRR in KF patients. Spermatozoa retrieved from men with KF are expected to yield the same FR, blastulation rate (BR), and IR as those collected from men with a normal set of chromosomes. However, the negative prognostic effects of other chromosomal abnormalities on ICSI outcomes, especially low BR, should be clearly explained to these patients during counseling for assisted reproductive techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael Zohdy
- Department of Andrology, Sexology and STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Andrology, Adam International Hospital, Giza, Egypt
| | | | - Hanan Hosny Moawad
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Medhat Amer
- Department of Andrology, Sexology and STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Andrology, Adam International Hospital, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sameh Fayek GamalEl Din
- Department of Andrology, Sexology and STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Ragab
- Department of Andrology, Sexology and STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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Pelit ES, Danacıoğlu YO, Katı B. Comparison of Effects of Chorionic Gonadotropin Alfa and Anastrozole on Sperm Retrieval Rate in Patients with Non-Mosaic Klinefelter Syndrome Following Microdissection Testicular Sperm Extraction. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2025; 61:467. [PMID: 40142278 PMCID: PMC11944092 DOI: 10.3390/medicina61030467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2025] [Revised: 02/22/2025] [Accepted: 03/04/2025] [Indexed: 03/28/2025]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effects of choriogonadotropin alfa and anastrozole treatments on the success of sperm retrieval in patients with Klinefelter syndrome (KS) undergoing micro-TESE at our clinic. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of a cohort including patients with non-mosaic KS who underwent micro-TESE for fertility treatment at the Reproductive Medicine Center of our university hospital. This study included 43 patients who had not received exogenous testosterone therapy prior to or during the procedure. Before surgical sperm retrieval, all patients received either choriogonadotropin alfa or anastrozole treatment based on their preference. Micro-TESE was performed on all patients after three months of treatment. Results: The overall SRR in the cohort post-micro-TESE was found to be 32.6%. There was a significant increase in post-treatment testosterone levels compared to pre-treatment levels. Upon dividing patients into two groups based on whether sperm was successfully retrieved, we observed significant improvements in testosterone levels in both groups following treatment. In the group presenting with successful sperm retrieval, 28.6% of patients had received choriogonadotropin alfa, while 71.4% had received anastrozole. No statistically significant difference was found between treatment groups in terms of micro-TESE success. Both choriogonadotropin alfa and anastrozole treatments resulted in significant improvements in testosterone levels following treatment compared to pre-operative levels. Furthermore, in the choriogonadotropin alfa group, there were significant decreases in follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels, as well as a significant increase in estradiol levels after treatment. Post-treatment E2 levels were significantly lower in the anastrozole group than in the choriogonadotropin alfa group (p = 0.032), while the mean testicular volume was statistically significantly lower in the choriogonadotropin alfa group. Conclusions: This study suggests that anastrozole treatment before micro-TESE in patients with KS yields more successful results in terms of the SRR compared to choriogonadotropin alfa treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyyup Sabri Pelit
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Sanliurfa 63300, Turkey;
| | - Yavuz Onur Danacıoğlu
- Clinic of Urology, Bakırköy Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul 34668, Turkey;
| | - Bülent Katı
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Sanliurfa 63300, Turkey;
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Hasirci E, Ceyhan E, Gultekin MH, Kayra MV, Kizilkan Y, Yildirim O, Altan M, Ure I, Cicek T, Sah C, Incekas C, Gul U, Turunc T. Parameters affecting the success rate of microscopic testicular sperm extraction in male patients with a solitary testis and non-obstructive azoospermia. Int Urol Nephrol 2024; 56:3201-3208. [PMID: 38733502 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-024-04074-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to compare the success rate of spermatozoa retrieval through microscopic testicular sperm extraction (mTESE) in non-obstructive azoospermic (NOA) men with a solitary testis with that of mTESE in NOA men with bilateral testes and the parameters affecting these rates. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study of factors contributing to infertility in NOA patients with a solitary testis and men with bilateral testes was carried out. In this multicenter study, 74 patients with NOA with a solitary testis were matched with 74 patients with bilateral testes in terms of age, duration of infertility, and volume of the solitary testis from 2770 patients with NOA with bilateral testes. Hormonal parameters, presence of varicocele, history of varicocelectomy, history of undescended testis and karyotype analysis results were compared. RESULTS Spermatozoa were obtained from 40 (54.1%) patients with a solitary testis and 42 (56.76%) patients with bilateral testes. No differences were found regarding age, duration of infertility, or mean testicular volume between patients with a solitary testis and patients with bilateral testes. When serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were compared regardless of sperm retrieval status, it was observed that both levels were greater in the group of patients with a solitary testis (p < 0.01). Patients with solitary and bilateral testes from whom spermatozoa were obtained had larger testes than those from whom spermatozoa could not be obtained (p < 0.05). Similarly, the serum levels of FSH and LH were significantly greater in patients with a solitary testis than in those with bilateral testes (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study in the literature to evaluate the parameters that influence mTESE outcome in NOA patients with a solitary testis and NOA patients with bilateral testes. Greater testicular volume was found to positively affect spermatozoa retrieval for patients with a solitary testis. The higher levels of FSH and LH in patients with a solitary testis than in patients with bilateral testes of similar testicular volume may be due to a compensatory mechanism developed by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The fact that these hormones are higher in patients with a solitary testis does not mean that the number of spermatozoa obtained through mTESE will be decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eray Hasirci
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Erman Ceyhan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Hamza Gultekin
- Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Vehbi Kayra
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Baskent University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Yalcin Kizilkan
- Department of Urology, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Omer Yildirim
- Gelibolu Sehit Koray Onay State Hospital, Urology Clinic, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Mesut Altan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Iyimser Ure
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Tufan Cicek
- Etlik Zubeyde Hanim Maternity and Women's Health Teaching and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cem Sah
- Medline Hospital, Adana, Turkey
| | - Caner Incekas
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Umit Gul
- Department of Urology, Private EPC Hospital, Adana, Turkey
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Gao S, Yang J, Chen D, Min X, Fan C, Zhang P, Wang Q, Li Z, Cai W. Noninvasive Prediction of Sperm Retrieval Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Patients with Nonobstructive Azoospermia. J Imaging 2023; 9:182. [PMID: 37754946 PMCID: PMC10532242 DOI: 10.3390/jimaging9090182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Microdissection testicular sperm extraction (mTESE) is the first-line treatment plan for nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). However, studies reported that the overall sperm retrieval rate (SRR) was 43% to 63% among men with NOA, implying that nearly half of the patients fail sperm retrieval. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of parameters derived from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in predicting SRR in patients with NOA. Seventy patients diagnosed with NOA were enrolled and classified into two groups based on the outcome of sperm retrieval during mTESE: success (29 patients) and failure (41 patients). Scrotal magnetic resonance imaging was performed, and the DTI parameters, including mean diffusivity and fractional anisotropy, were analyzed between groups. The results showed that there was a significant difference in mean diffusivity values between the two groups, and the area under the curve for mean diffusivity was calculated as 0.865, with a sensitivity of 72.2% and a specificity of 97.5%. No statistically significant difference was observed in fractional anisotropy values and sex hormone levels between the two groups. This study demonstrated that the mean diffusivity value might serve as a useful noninvasive imaging marker for predicting the SRR of NOA patients undergoing mTESE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sikang Gao
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (S.G.); (X.M.); (C.F.); (P.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.L.)
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China;
| | - Dong Chen
- Department of Pathology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China;
| | - Xiangde Min
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (S.G.); (X.M.); (C.F.); (P.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.L.)
| | - Chanyuan Fan
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (S.G.); (X.M.); (C.F.); (P.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.L.)
| | - Peipei Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (S.G.); (X.M.); (C.F.); (P.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.L.)
| | - Qiuxia Wang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (S.G.); (X.M.); (C.F.); (P.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.L.)
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (S.G.); (X.M.); (C.F.); (P.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.L.)
| | - Wei Cai
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (S.G.); (X.M.); (C.F.); (P.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.L.)
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Zhang B, Li F, Huang C, Xu L, Cao Z, Kang Y, Jiang W, Chang D. The correlation between clinical features and ultrastructure of testis of non-mosaic Klinefelter's syndrome patients with hypogonadism and androgen deficiency: A case report. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19940. [PMID: 37809695 PMCID: PMC10559353 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Klinefelter Syndrome (KS) is a sex chromosomal syndrome usually with an extra X chromosome (47, XXY) in males, which has various phenotype (mosaicism 47, XXY/46, XY, or more chromosomes 48, XXXY, 49, XXXXY) and clinical features, including eunuchoid body proportions, abnormally long legs and arm span, gynecomastia, ynecomastia, absent or decreased facial and pubic hair, small hyalinized testes, small penis, below-normal verbal intelligence quotient, and learning difficulties. At present, there are no studies on the correlation between the clinical characteristics of patients with KS and the ultrastructural changes of intracellular organelles in testicular tissue in China. Case presentation Here we report the ultrastructure manifestation of the testis tissues in a KS patient with hypogonadism and androgen deficiency, to find a relationship between ultrastructural changes of organelles and spermatogenic dysfunction, clinical features, timing of surgery and metabolic abnormalities. It has been shown that the spermatocytes are absent and the ultrastructure of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells is obviously abnormal, which may lead to spermatogenic dysfunction, androgen deficiency, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and abdominal fat accumulation. Conclusions Based on the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) Gudilines on Klinefelter Syndrome, this study conducted a retrospective study on the diagnosis and treatment of one adult patient with KS, aiming to provide a standardized diagnosis and treatment for patients with KS. This study is also highly concerned with the correlation between the ultrastructural changes of target organs and clinical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Fudong Li
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Chuang Huang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Liuting Xu
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Zhigang Cao
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yafen Kang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Convalescent Section First of Convalescent Zone Second, Air Force Hangzhou Secret Service Rehabilitation Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dehui Chang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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Juul A, Gravholt CH, De Vos M, Koledova E, Cools M. Individuals with numerical and structural variations of sex chromosomes: interdisciplinary management with focus on fertility potential. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1160884. [PMID: 37214245 PMCID: PMC10197804 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1160884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Diagnosis and management of individuals who have differences of sex development (DSD) due to numerical or structural variations of sex chromosomes (NSVSC) remains challenging. Girls who have Turner syndrome (45X) may present with varying phenotypic features, from classical/severe to minor, and some remain undiagnosed. Boys and girls who have 45,X/46,XY chromosomal mosaicism may have Turner syndrome-like features and short stature; therefore, unexplained short stature during childhood requires karyotype analysis in both sexes, particularly if characteristic features or atypical genitalia are present. Many individuals with Klinefelter syndrome (47XXY) remain undiagnosed or are only diagnosed as adults due to fertility problems. Newborn screening by heel prick tests could potentially identify sex chromosome variations but would have ethical and financial implications, and in-depth cost-benefit analyses are needed before nationwide screening can be introduced. Most individuals who have NSVSC have lifelong co-morbidities and healthcare should be holistic, personalized and centralized, with a focus on information, psychosocial support and shared decision-making. Fertility potential should be assessed individually and discussed at an appropriate age. Oocyte or ovarian tissue cryopreservation is possible in some women who have Turner syndrome and live births have been reported following assisted reproductive technology (ART). Testicular sperm cell extraction (TESE) is possible in some men who have 45,X/46,XY mosaicism, but there is no established protocol and no reported fathering of children. Some men with Klinefelter syndrome can now father a child following TESE and ART, with multiple reports of healthy live births. Children who have NSVSC, their parents and DSD team members need to address possibilities and ethical questions relating to potential fertility preservation, with guidelines and international studies still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claus H. Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Michel De Vos
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Global Medical Affairs Cardiometabolic and Endocrinology, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Martine Cools
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Pediatric Endocrinology Service, Department of Pediatrics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Baeck JH, Kim TJ, Kim TH, Lee SR, Park DS, Kwon H, Shin JE, Lee DH, Yu YD. A dual-center study of predictive factors for sperm retrieval through microdissection testicular sperm extraction and intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes in men with non-mosaic Klinefelter syndrome. Investig Clin Urol 2023; 64:41-50. [PMID: 36629064 PMCID: PMC9834573 DOI: 10.4111/icu.20220253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study evaluated the predictors of sperm retrieval (SR) in non-mosaic Klinefelter syndrome (KS) patients undergoing microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (mTESE). The cutoff values of the predictors of SR and overall pregnancy rates after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) were analyzed for the positive SR (PSR) cases. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was a dual-center retrospective study. Overall 118 patients with KS underwent mTESE between January 2011 and July 2021. Clinicopathological factors including comorbidities, endocrine profiles, and testicular volumes were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 58 patients showed PSR (49.2%) and 60 patients (50.8%) had negative SR (NSR). The mean overall age of the patients was 32.5 years. The NSR patients had a significantly greater prevalence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, and cerebrovascular disease. The PSR group had a significantly higher left testis mean volume (p=0.039). The differences between the two study groups regarding follicular-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone variations at 1 and 3 months after mTESE were insignificant. Preoperative mean neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was significantly greater in the NSR group (p=0.011), but the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio showed no significant difference between the two study groups. A live child birth was achieved in 53.4% of the PSR patients. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that total testicular volume >3.93 mL, left testis volume >1.79 mL, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio ≤1.82 were significantly associated with PSR. CONCLUSIONS mTESE-ICSI is a feasible method for KS patients to have a child, and total testicular volume, left testis volume, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio might be predictors of successful SR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Hyeun Baeck
- Department of Urology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Tae Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, CHA Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Goyang, Korea
| | - Tae Heon Kim
- Department of Urology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Seung-Ryeol Lee
- Department of Urology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Dong Soo Park
- Department of Urology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Hwang Kwon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Bundang Medical Center, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Ji Eun Shin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Bundang Medical Center, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Dong Hyeon Lee
- Department of Physiology, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Young Dong Yu
- Department of Urology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
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Renault L, Labrune E, Giscard d’Estaing S, Cuzin B, Lapoirie M, Benchaib M, Lornage J, Soignon G, de Souza A, Dijoud F, Fraison E, Pral-Chatillon L, Bordes A, Sanlaville D, Schluth–Bolard C, Salle B, Ecochard R, Lejeune H, Plotton I. Delaying testicular sperm extraction in 47,XXY Klinefelter patients does not impair the sperm retrieval rate, and AMH levels are higher when TESE is positive. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:2518-2531. [PMID: 36112034 PMCID: PMC9627253 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Should testicular sperm extraction (TESE) in non-mosaic 47,XXY Klinefelter syndrome (KS) patients be performed soon after puberty or could it be delayed until adulthood? SUMMARY ANSWER The difference in sperm retrieval rate (SRR) in TESE was not significant between the 'Young' (15-22 years old) cohort and the 'Adult' (23-43 years old) cohort of non-mosaic KS patients recruited prospectively in parallel. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Several studies have tried to define predictive factors for TESE outcome in non-mosaic KS patients, with very heterogeneous results. Some authors have found that age was a pejorative factor and recommended performing TESE soon after puberty. To date, no predictive factors have been unanimously recognized to guide clinicians in deciding to perform TESE in azoospermic KS patients. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Two cohorts (Young: 15-22 years old; Adult: 23-43 years old) were included prospectively in parallel. A total of 157 non-mosaic 47,XXY KS patients were included between 2010 and 2020 in the reproductive medicine department of the University Hospital of Lyon, France. However 31 patients gave up before TESE, four had cryptozoospermia and three did not have a valid hormone assessment; these were excluded from this study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Data for 119 patients (61 Young and 58 Adult) were analyzed. All of these patients had clinical, hormonal and seminal evaluation before conventional TESE (c-TESE). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The global SRR was 45.4%. SRRs were not significantly different between the two age groups: Young SRR=49.2%, Adult SRR = 41.4%; P = 0.393. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and inhibin B were significantly higher in the Young group (AMH: P = 0.001, Inhibin B: P < 0.001), and also higher in patients with a positive TESE than in those with a negative TESE (AMH: P = 0.001, Inhibin B: P = 0.036). The other factors did not differ between age groups or according to TESE outcome. AMH had a better predictive value than inhibin B. SRRs were significantly higher in the upper quartile of AMH plasma levels than in the lower quartile (or in cases with AMH plasma level below the quantification limit): 67.7% versus 28.9% in the whole population (P = 0.001), 60% versus 20% in the Young group (P = 0.025) and 71.4% versus 33.3% in the Adult group (P = 0.018). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION c-TESE was performed in the whole study; we cannot rule out the possibility of different results if microsurgical TESE had been performed. Because of the limited sensitivity of inhibin B and AMH assays, a large number of patients had values lower than the quantification limits, preventing the definition a threshold below which negative TESE can be predicted. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS In contrast to some studies, age did not appear as a pejorative factor when comparing patients 15-22 and 23-44 years of age. Improved accuracy of inhibin B and AMH assays in the future might still allow discrimination of patients with persistent foci of spermatogenesis and guide clinician decision-making and patient information. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by a grant from the French Ministry of Health D50621 (Programme Hospitalier de Recherche Clinical Régional 2008). The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01918280.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Renault
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Inserm U1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Elsa Labrune
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Inserm U1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Sandrine Giscard d’Estaing
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Inserm U1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Beatrice Cuzin
- Service d’Urologie et de Transplantation, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Marion Lapoirie
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Mehdi Benchaib
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- CNRS UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, Équipe Biostatistique-Santé, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Jacqueline Lornage
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Inserm U1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Gaëlle Soignon
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - André de Souza
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Frédérique Dijoud
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Inserm U1208, Bron Cedex, France
- Laboratoire d’Anatomopathologie, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Eloïse Fraison
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Inserm U1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Laurence Pral-Chatillon
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Agnès Bordes
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Damien Sanlaville
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Service de Génétique, Laboratoire de Cytogénétique Constitutionnelle, Centre de Biologie et de Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, GENDEV Team, CNRS UMR 5292, INSERM U1028, UCBL1, Bron, France
| | - Caroline Schluth–Bolard
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Service de Génétique, Laboratoire de Cytogénétique Constitutionnelle, Centre de Biologie et de Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, GENDEV Team, CNRS UMR 5292, INSERM U1028, UCBL1, Bron, France
| | - Bruno Salle
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Inserm U1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - René Ecochard
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- CNRS UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, Équipe Biostatistique-Santé, Villeurbanne, France
- Service de Biostatistique-Bioinformatique, Pôle Santé Publique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Hervé Lejeune
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Inserm U1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Ingrid Plotton
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Inserm U1208, Bron Cedex, France
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, Centre de Biologie et de Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
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Pallotti F, Barbonetti A, Rastrelli G, Santi D, Corona G, Lombardo F. The impact of male factors and their correct and early diagnosis in the infertile couple's pathway: 2021 perspectives. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:1807-1822. [PMID: 35349114 PMCID: PMC8961097 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01778-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The current clinical practice in reproductive medicine should pose the couple at the centre of the diagnostic-therapeutic management of infertility and requires intense collaboration between the andrologist, the gynaecologist and the embryologist. The andrologist, in particular, to adequately support the infertile couple, must undertake important biological, psychological, economical and ethical task. Thus, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted role of the andrologist in the study of male factor infertility. METHODS A comprehensive Medline, Embase and Cochrane search was performed including publications between 1969 and 2021. RESULTS Available evidence indicates that a careful medical history and physical examination, followed by semen analysis, always represent the basic starting points of the diagnostic work up in male partner of an infertile couple. Regarding treatment, gonadotropins are an effective treatment in case of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and FSH may be used in men with idiopathic infertility, while evidence supporting other hormonal and nonhormonal treatments is either limited or conflicting. In the future, pharmacogenomics of FSHR and FSHB as well as innovative compounds may be considered to develop new therapeutic strategies in the management of infertility. CONCLUSION To provide a high-level of care, the andrologist must face several critical diagnostical and therapeutical steps. Even though ART may be the final and decisive stage of this decisional network, neglecting to treat the male partner may ultimately increase the risks of negative outcome, as well as costs and psychological burden for the couple itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - G Rastrelli
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi Hospital-Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - D Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda-Usl Bologna, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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11
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Li JP, Du CQ, Liu ZB, Zhang FB, Li LJ, Wu JG, Tian YH, Liang ZY, Chen C, Jin F. Development and validation predictive models of sperm retrieval for azoospermic men undergoing testicular sperm aspiration: a multicentre, retrospective, cohort study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1779-1787. [PMID: 35870097 PMCID: PMC9428087 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02531-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) is widely used to retrieve sperm from testis. Diagnostic testicular biopsy should not be routinely performed for azoospermia. Therefore, a good predictive model is needed before TESA. METHODS A total of 1972 azoospermia patients constituted the modelling set, and 260 azoospermia patients from two other centres constituted the validation set. An integrated predictive model was built using logistic regression. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC), calibration and decision curve analyses were performed to evaluate the performance of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), semen volume, testicular volume and the integrated model. RESULTS The FSH level was the best univariate predictor for successful sperm retrieval (SSR) and was better than semen volume and testicular volume alone (p<0.001, threshold 6.17 IU/L, modelling set area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) 0.80, accuracy 0.79; validation set AUC 0.87, accuracy 0.78). The integrated predictive model had excellent accuracy for predicting SSR (modelling set: AUC 0.93, accuracy 0.89; validation set: AUC 0.96, accuracy: 0.89). Calibration curve analysis indicated that the integrated model calibration was good and better than that of FSH, semen volume and testicular volume alone. Decision curve analysis indicated with a threshold probability between 0.05 and 0.98, the integrated model added more benefit than treating either all or no patients. CONCLUSIONS The integrated model has excellent discrimination and good calibration. It can help azoospermic men make better decisions before TESA. It should be noted that TESA is not the first-line treatment for non-obstructive azoospermia because of a low sperm retrieval rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Ping Li
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China, 310006
| | - Cong-Qi Du
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zu-Bo Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Jinhua People's Hospital, Jinhua, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng-Bin Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China, 310006
| | - Le-Jun Li
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China, 310006
| | - Jing-Gen Wu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China, 310006
| | - Yong-Hong Tian
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China, 310006
| | - Zhong-Yan Liang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China, 310006
| | - Chong Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Jin
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China, 310006.
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