Recent Research on Semen Abnormality Patterns and Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples in Dakar (Senegal)

Introduction: Inter individual variation for semen on analysis is well known. Therefore, Semen profile
is not the same in individuals from different geographic locations, environments, ways of life, and
populations. It is important for a laboratory to have an idea of the semen profile of its population,
especially for those who present with infertility. The aim of this study was to draw the pattern of semen
abnormalities in male partner of infertile couple in Dakar, Senegal.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of all the semen samples of male partners of infertile
couples submitted for analysis in the laboratory of Cytogenetic and Reproductive Biology of Dakar at
the University Teaching hospital from January 2013 to June 2014.
Results: A total of 262 male semen analyses were reported. Analysis was performed according to
WHO, 2010 manual for examination of human semen. Our study reveals that 80.9% of men in infertile
couples present an abnormality in sperm pattern. The main one is oligoasthenoteratonecrozoospermia
(20.2%), followed by azoospermia, (14.1%), asthenonecrospermia (10.3%) and
asthenoteratonecrozoospermia (10.3%). Leucocytospermia was found in 57.8%. Teratozoospermia
(80.9%) was the most associated abnormality, followed by necrozoospermia (76.2%). Low sperm
count under 5 million per ml concerned 27.7% of the patients, and 11.2% patients had low ejaculate
volume. Nearly 42.1% of the male partners are potential candidates for Assisted Reproductive
Technology for male infertility.
Conclusion: The high rate of semen abnormality in patients of infertile couples and consequently the
high rate of potential candidates to Assisted Reproductive Technology for male infertility are important
reasons for taking into account rigorously the male subject if we want to improve fertility rate in our
context. The pattern of the specific abnormalities found is precious clues to guide management of
these patients.