Update in the evaluation of the azoospermic male

Ahmet Gudeloglu, Sijo J Parekattil, Ahmet Gudeloglu, Sijo J Parekattil

Abstract

Approximately 1% of all men in the general population suffer from azoospermia, and azoospermic men constitute approximately 10 to 15% of all infertile men. Thus, this group of patients represents a significant population in the field of male infertility. A thorough medical history, physical examination and hormonal profile are essential in the evaluation of azoospermic males. Imaging studies, a genetic workup and a testicular biopsy (with cryopreservation) may augment the workup and evaluation. Men with nonobstructive azoospermia should be offered genetic counseling before their spermatozoa are used for assisted reproductive techniques. This article provides a contemporary review of the evaluation of the azoospermic male.

Conflict of interest statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Illustration of left-sided varicocele on physical examination.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Illustration of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis, Part 1: Regulatory pathways
Figure 3
Figure 3
Illustration of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis, Part 2: Feedback pathways
Figure 4
Figure 4
Transrectal imaging of the seminal vesicles
Figure 5
Figure 5
New 3D-guided transrectal imaging device (TargetScan®, Envisioneering Inc., St. Louis, MO)

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