UPDATES IN PROTOCOL FOR HUMAN SEMEN EXAMINATION

Abstract

Currently, the WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen (5th edition, 2010) provides updated, standardized, evidence-based procedures and recommendations for laboratory managers, scientists and technicians to follow in examining human semen in a clinical or research setting. Despite the fact, there are several gaps and limitations in the interpretation of this compendium. Mostly, the WHO-protocol of estimation of peroxidase-positive cells and spermatozoa, as well as evaluation of their viability and morphology are not so affordable and applicable in Russia due to peculiarities of laboratory market. Furthermore, most of Russian manuscripts do not reflect a unified approach to the analytical stage of semen analyses. In order to standardize the protocol for human semen examination which adopted to Russian lab it was developed packing of reagents (GEMSTANDART-SEMEN ANALYSES, LLC ‘GEMSTANDART’, Saint Petersburg, Russia) allowing to obtain an accuracy and completeness of the examination. In summary, this approach is a necessary step in male fertility evaluation. Together with a clinical information, it is indispensable for planning the appropriate clinical management and tacking care in male health.