What is azoospermia, and how does it differ from oligospermia?

Definitions:

  1. Azoospermia:
    • The complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate. It affects 男性不妊 and is responsible for 10-15% of male infertility cases.
  2. Oligospermia:
    • A condition characterized by a low sperm count, typically defined as fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen.

Types of Azoospermia:

  1. Obstructive Azoospermia:
    • Sperm are produced in the testes but cannot reach the ejaculate due to blockages in the reproductive tract. Common causes include vasectomy, infections, or congenital defects like CBAVD.
  2. Non-Obstructive Azoospermia:
    • Sperm production is impaired or absent due to testicular dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, or genetic factors.

Causes of Oligospermia:

  • Similar to azoospermia but typically less severe, with causes including:
    • Hormonal imbalances.
    • Testicular injury or infection.
    • Environmental and lifestyle factors (e.g., toxins, heat exposure).

Diagnosis and Treatment:

  • Diagnosis: Semen analysis differentiates between azoospermia and oligospermia. Additional tests, such as hormonal profiles, scrotal ultrasound, or genetic testing, may be required.
  • Treatment:
    • Azoospermia: Sperm retrieval techniques like testicular sperm extraction (TESE) or treating obstructions surgically.
    • Oligospermia: Lifestyle changes, medications, or ART like ICSI.

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