Chronic excessive alcohol consumption and male fertility: A case report on reversible azoospermia and a literature review

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this work was to report on a heavy drinker whose azoospermia was reversed after alcohol withdrawal. We also review the literature on links between alcohol consumption and azoospermia. Method: This study is a clinical case report and a literature review. Results: Two years after alcohol withdrawal, a child was born following assisted reproduction technique. Excessive alcohol consumption (i.e. more than 60 g a day) is strongly associated with azoospermia and this condition may be reversible after alcohol withdrawal. Conclusions: Testicular biopsies should be countra-indicated for heavy drinkers, and in order to increase the chances of obtaining a pregnancy, alcohol abstinence should be encouraged in male with low-to-moderate alcohol intakes. © The Author 2013. Medical Council on Alcohol and Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.