Leukocytospermia

Leukocytospermia can be triggered by various factors that lead to infections or inflammations in the reproductive organs:

• Infections: Urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea) or inflammations of the prostate (prostatitis) and epididymis (epididymitis) are common causes of an increased number of leukocytes in the ejaculate.
• Chronic inflammations: Long-lasting inflammatory processes in the urinary tract or reproductive organs can increase the number of leukocytes in the ejaculate.
• Varicocele: A varicose vein formation in the scrotum can impair blood flow and cause inflammation, leading to leukocytospermia.
• Immunological causes: Autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks its own sperm, can also trigger an increase in leukocytes in the ejaculate.
• Toxins and environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, chemicals, or radiation can damage sperm and lead to an immunological reaction that causes leukocytospermia.

Leukocytospermia often does not cause specific symptoms. However, in some cases, there may be symptoms indicating an underlying infection or inflammation, such as:

• Pain or burning during urination
• Pain in the testicles or lower abdomen
• Fever or general discomfort in acute infections
• Discharge from the urethra or other signs of a sexually transmitted infection

The diagnosis is made through a spermogram, in which the number of leukocytes in the ejaculate is measured. A leukocyte count of more than 1 million per milliliter of ejaculate is considered diagnostic for leukocytospermia. Further tests can be conducted to determine the cause of the condition:

- Urinalysis and swab: To check for infections or sexually transmitted diseases.

- Blood tests: To check for inflammatory markers and possible infections.

- Ultrasound of the testes: To detect structural problems such as a varicocele.

The treatment of leukocytospermia depends on the underlying cause:

- Antibiotics: If an infection is present, antibiotic therapy is used to treat the infection and reduce the leukocytes in the ejaculate.

- Antioxidant therapy: Antioxidants such as vitamins C, E, and zinc can help reduce oxidative stress and protect sperm from damage.

- Surgical treatment: In the case of a varicocele, surgery may be necessary to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.

- Anti-inflammatory medications: In cases of chronic inflammation, anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to lower the number of leukocytes.

The best prevention against leukocytospermia is to treat infections and inflammations of the genital organs early. Safe sexual practices and the use of condoms can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. A healthy lifestyle that minimizes exposure to environmental toxins and reduces oxidative stress can also help maintain sperm quality and reduce the risk of leukocytospermia.