A survey of anti-sperm antibodies in infertile couples

The presence of anti-sperm antibodies (ASA) in semen or serum may impair sperm function leading to immunological infertility. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of ASA on the surface of sperm and in circulating blood of infertile couples. In this cross sectional study, we studied 49 couples suffering from infertility for at least one year. Serum ASA (IgG and IgA classes) was examined by indirect SpermMAR test. Also, ASA (IgG and IgA classes) attached to the surface of spermatozoa were tested by direct SpermMAR method in ejaculates from infertile men. ASA were positive in 8% of semen samples (2% IgG, 4% IgA, 2% both IgG and IgA classes). Only in one woman, ASA of the IgG class was found in serum samples. The presence of ASA may impair fertilizing ability and is a serious factor which may prevent the success of various fertilization techniques. ASA assessment should be considered as an essential part of infertility management.