What is azoospermia, and how does it differ from oligospermia?
Definitions:
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.
Oligospermia:
A condition characterized by a low sperm count, typically defined as fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen.
Types of Azoospermia:
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.
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.