Estimation of number, mean size and size distribution of human spermatozoa in oligospermia using a Coulter counter

Abstract

This study was undertaken in order to try to develop an automatic method for assessing the quality of the human ejaculate, both with respect to the sperm count and to the types of spermatozoa present. It is considered that the degree of oligospermia should be stated as a separate parameter and the other terms should be used to describe the microscopic picture. For a full assessment of oligospermia, a microscopic examination is still believed to be essential. The finite counts obtained with the Coulter counter in cases of azoospermia are believed to reflect the miscellaneous cell debris present in these specimens. It is concluded that the Coulter counter is not suitable for semen specimens containing less than 5x106 spermatozoa/ml. Any count below 20x106 spermatozoa/ml should be viewed with suspicion unless it is validated by a hemocytometer count. Once spermatozoa have been shown to be present, certain arbitrary classifications are possible based on the total count using the Coulter counter. (31 references.)