Detection and localization of anti-sperm antibodies in infertile males in Duhok city

Abstract EN

Background and objectives Anti-sperm antibodies are the main cause of immunological infertility, as they impair sperm function by binding to the sperm membrane.

The aim of the study is to assess the relationship between the presence of anti-sperm antibodies in sera of normozoospermia infertile patient with the localization of anti-sperm antibodies on sperm surface by using ELISA and IIF tests respectively.

The current study is an attempt to determine the rate of anti-sperm antibodies in sera and surfaces of sperm among a population of infertile patients in Duhok province which is the first study done in all Kurdistan region/Iraq.

Methods The study was started at the beginning of April 2007 and finished at the end of December 2007.

A total of 480 semen samples were collected from infertile males suffering from primary and secondary infertility attending infertility clinic/Azadi teaching hospital.

The patients were categorized into 4 age groups ranging from 23-42 years.

All semen samples were examined macroscopically and microscopically.

The information of each semen samples were recorded in a special form.

Results It was found that only 105 (21.8%) males were normozoospermia, while 375 (78.2%) males with abnormal semen characteristics according to the criteria of World Health Organization.

The results of ELISA test revealed that 18 (17.1%) sera samples of infertile males were positive for anti-sperm antibodies, while 22 (20.9% )were equivocal and65 (61.9%) were negative for the presence of anti-sperm antibodies.

The results of indirect immuno-fluorescent test revealed that all the 15 ELISA positive samples were positive for anti-sperm antibodies, whereas the other 15 negative samples were negative for antisperm antibodies.

Conclusion The presence of anti-sperm antibodies was high among infertile males in Duhok province.

ELISA and indirect immuno-fluorescent tests were found to be sensitive and rapid for detection of anti-sperm antibodies in infertile males compared with other tests.