oligozoospermi

Oligozoospermia, also known as oligozoospermia, is a male reproductive condition defined by a low concentration of sperm in semen. The World Health Organization considers this state present when sperm concentration is below 15 million sperm per milliliter, with a total sperm count per ejaculate under about 39 million. Men with oligozoospermia may have normal sperm motility or morphology, but the reduced sperm number can impair fertilization possibilities.

Causes are diverse and commonly categorized as pre-testicular, testicular, or post-testicular. Pre-testicular factors include endocrine or systemic conditions, certain medications, and lifestyle factors that affect sperm production. Testicular causes encompass primary testicular failure, genetic disorders (such as Klinefelter syndrome and Y-chromosome microdeletions), infections, trauma, and varicoceles. Post-testicular factors involve obstructions of the ejaculatory ducts, congenital absence of the vas deferens, or retrograde ejaculation. Environmental and lifestyle influences such as smoking, obesity, excessive heat exposure, alcohol use, and use of anabolic steroids can contribute. In some cases, no single cause is identified.

Diagnosis relies on semen analysis performed after an abstinence period, with confirmation by at least one additional sample. Additional evaluations may include hormonal testing (FSH, LH, testosterone), physical examination, scrotal ultrasound, and targeted genetic testing when indicated to identify underlying conditions.

Management aims to treat underlying causes, improve semen parameters, and achieve pregnancy. Options include lifestyle modifications, treatment of hormonal or anatomical disorders (e.g., varicocele repair), and assisted reproductive technologies such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection using retrieved sperm when necessary. Prognosis varies with etiology; some men achieve natural or assisted conception, while others require ongoing fertility treatment.