Andrology laboratory review: evaluation of sperm morphology

Abstract

Sperm morphology assessment has an important role in male fertility diagnosis and prognosis, both for humans and animals. Thus, it is important that relevant results are comparable and consistent. To achieve these aims, the following procedures are recommended: a. semen sample is suitably ‘fixed’ (e.g. in isotonic buffered formal-saline); b. sperm are examined at 1,000 x (phase or DIC microscopy); c.at least 200 sperm are counted; d. each sperm is placed into 1 category, only (e.g. normal, head, midpiece etc), and e. 70% ‘normal’ sperm is the threshold for a satisfactory sample. In addition, morphologists should be provided with relevant continuing education, upskilling, and monitoring programs. This review provides guidelines for the best performance of this assessment, as well as for avoiding pitfalls.