Study of human semen: implementation of an objective method

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

Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica. Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica-UBA, INFIBIOQ. Hospital de Clínicas “José de San Martín”. Bs. As, Argentina. Hospital de Clínicas “José de San Martín” – Av. Córdoba 2351 (1120) CABA. Argentina

The aim of this study was to standardize and validate a CASA system, SCA (Sperm Class Analyzer) for the parameters of sperm concentration and motility according to international standards. The type of speed for the classification of degrees and the proper depth of the camera were standardized. For the validation, accuracy, detection limit, measuring range and method comparison study were determined. High linear correlation was found in the classification of motion using curvilinear velocity or average speed (r=0.99, p<0.001), establishing the use of the first to obtain results comparable with other objectives. Likewise, the use of cameras 10 microns in depth was also standardized since better images are obtained for the analysis without affecting mobility. Average imprecision was 13.29%, 14.26% and 18.75% for counting, progressive and mobile grades respectively. High correlation was found with the manual method, both in concentration (r=0.97, p<0.0001), progressive mobiles (r=0.84, (p<0.001) and mobile grade a (r=0.82, p<0.0001). Linearity (r=0.99, p<0.001) was proved between 0.98 and 125 x 106 x 106 sperm/mL. It is concluded that the proposed method meets the requirements for use in the clinic, being image editing by a qualified operator indispensable.

Acta Bioquím Clín Latinoam 2013; 47 (1): 61-69