Antisperm antibodies (ASA)

General Information

It is established that the body of both men and women can produce antisperm antibodies. This immunological condition may be the cause of infertility. Almost 30% of infertility diagnoses are related to the presence of antisperm antibodies.

Sperms are isolated from the immune system by the so-called blood-testicular barrier. Damage to the barrier occurs during: trauma, vasectomy, epididymal obstruction and infections, as a result of which spermatozoa enter the blood circulation and cause immune reactions. The mechanism of development of antisperm iso-antibodies in a woman's body is not fully clarified. According to available data, antibodies developed in response to some viral or bacterial processes may cross-react with sperm antigens. Antisperm antibodies may also be associated with autoimmune processes.

Antisperm antibodies against the plasma membrane have clinical significance. They affect the ability of spermatozoa to move and thus the process of fertilization.

When is the survey conducted?

When diagnosing infertility, in the following cases:

In men:

• Agglutination of spermatozoa in ejaculate
• History of testicular trauma or biopsy
• vasectomy
• Genital infections
• Obstructive diseases of seminal ducts

In women:

• Abnormal postcoital test (no moving spermatozoa are found in the cervical mucus after sexual intercourse)
• Genital infections
• Absence of other causes of infertility

Patient preparation: not required

Study material: Venous blood

Referral norm: 0-60 RU/ml (relative units/ml)